10 Common Questions About Dental Bone Loss

  • Can jawbone loss be reversed? Yes, through bone grafting procedures that encourage new bone growth and restore structural volume.

  • How much bone is needed? Dentists generally require a minimum of about 1 millimeter of bone width and 10 millimeters of length, though exact dimensions depend on the implant size and location.

  • Do I need a bone graft? Not always, but you will need one if your remaining jawbone is too thin or soft to securely anchor and support an implant.

  • How long after extraction does it occur? Rapid bone resorption begins almost immediately, with the most significant volume loss happening within the first 6 months following a tooth extraction.

  • What causes bone loss around implants? Chronic inflammation from gum infections (peri-implantitis), excessive bite pressure, or poor initial osseointegration can cause bone deterioration around an existing implant.

  • How much does a graft cost? In the Philippines, dental bone grafts typically range from PHP 15,000 to PHP 50,000 per site, depending on the complexity and materials used.

  • Can gum disease cause it? Yes, advanced periodontitis destroys the supporting soft tissue and gradually breaks down the underlying alveolar jawbone.

  • What happens if it's untreated? Untreated bone loss leads to facial sagging, shifting of adjacent teeth, bite misalignment, and the eventual inability to support dental prosthetics.

  • How can you rebuild jawbone? Jawbone can be rebuilt using autografts (bone from your own body), allografts (donor bone), xenografts (animal-derived bone), alloplasts (synthetic materials), or via procedures like sinus lifts and ridge expansion.