How Bone Loss Affects Your Denture Fit

Celeste Hall

Feb 282 min read

If you’re noticing your dentures are feeling loose or uncomfortable, bone loss might be the issue. Let's explore how bone loss affects your dentures and what you can do about it—especially here in Shreveport and Bossier City, LA.

Understanding Bone Loss & Denture Stability

A side-by-side comparison of two human skulls, one with normal bone structure and the other showing significant bone loss in the jaw. This image highlights the effects of missing teeth on jawbone deterioration, emphasizing the importance of dentures and dental implants in preserving bone density and facial structure. — Here's what happens to your jawbone over time after tooth loss. Notice how the bone gradually shrinks without the stimulation from natural teeth.

Why Does Bone Loss Happen After Tooth Extraction?

Once teeth are removed, the jawbone naturally shrinks—a process known as bone resorption. Without teeth, your jaw loses the stimulation it needs, causing significant bone loss, especially during the first year after extraction.

Important Fact: According to the Journal of Oral Implantology, the jawbone can shrink by 25% within just one year after tooth extraction.

How Does Bone Loss Impact Your Dentures?

As your jawbone shrinks, dentures become less stable, leading to:

Loose, shifting dentures
Difficulty chewing and speaking
Discomfort or irritation

Will Dentures Ever Fit Permanently?

Truthfully, dentures typically require regular adjustments because bone resorption continues gradually over time.

Ensuring a Better Denture Fit:

Regular Adjustments and Relining: Denture relining reshapes your dentures to fit your changing jaw structure.
Implant-supported Dentures: These provide superior stability, reduce bone loss, and offer a more permanent solution.

Expert Tip: Dr. Ryan Haygood, DDS, explains, “Implant-supported dentures significantly slow bone loss and keep your dentures fitting comfortably.”

A 3D-rendered medical illustration of a human jaw showing significant bone loss in the lower jaw due to missing teeth. The image highlights the deterioration of the bone structure, emphasizing the consequences of untreated tooth loss. — *Missing teeth lead to jawbone deterioration over time, affecting facial structure and oral health. Without tooth roots to stimulate the bone, resorption occurs, leading to significant bone loss.*

A 3D-rendered medical illustration of a human jaw with two dental implants replacing missing teeth. The implants help maintain bone density and restore proper function, demonstrating the benefits of dental implants in preventing bone loss. — *Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots, preserving bone structure and preventing deterioration. They restore function, aesthetics, and long-term oral health.*

How Can You Prevent Bone Loss?

Steps to Minimize Bone Loss:

Consider Dental Implants: Implants stimulate your jawbone similarly to natural teeth, reducing bone loss.
Healthy Diet: Eat calcium-rich foods and vitamin D to maintain bone density.
Excellent Oral Hygiene: Reduces inflammation and helps maintain jawbone integrity.

Pro Tip: The American Academy of Implant Dentistry recommends early placement of dental implants after tooth extraction to significantly reduce bone loss.

Why Stable Bone Structure Matters

Stable bones mean comfortable dentures, better facial appearance, improved speech, and easier chewing. Protecting your jawbone is essential for overall oral health.

FAQs

Q: Can you get snap-in dentures with bone loss?

A: Yes! Snap-in (implant-supported) dentures are specifically recommended to stabilize dentures and minimize further bone loss.

Q: How do I know if I have bone loss in my jaw?

A: Loose dentures, difficulty chewing, and noticeable facial structure changes are common signs.

Q: Can jawbone loss be reversed?

A: While complete reversal isn't common, dental implants can dramatically slow or stop further loss.

Ready for Comfortable Dentures Again?

Crown and Denture Solutions proudly serves Shreveport and Bossier City, LA. We specialize in dentures, implants, and personalized denture solutions.

📞 Call us today for a free consultation!

💡 Financing available to fit your budget!

Enjoy life again with dentures that feel just right.