Losing a tooth doesn’t just leave a gap in your smile—it can also lead to changes beneath the surface. When a tooth is missing, the jawbone that once supported it begins to shrink over time. This process, called bone resorption, can affect how your face looks, how your remaining teeth function, and how future dental treatments fit.
But here’s the good news: bone loss after tooth loss isn’t inevitable. With the right approach, it can often be slowed—or even prevented.
Why Bone Loss Happens
Your jawbone needs stimulation to stay healthy. Normally, this stimulation comes from your tooth roots during everyday activities like chewing. When a tooth is lost, the bone no longer receives that signal, and it begins to shrink in both height and width.
This change can start within the first year after losing a tooth. Over time, it can lead to shifting teeth, a sunken facial appearance, and complications for dental restorations like bridges or dentures.
What Can You Do About It?
One of the most effective ways to prevent bone loss is replacing the missing tooth with a dental implant. Implants act like artificial roots, helping to maintain the structure of the jawbone by providing the same kind of stimulation that natural teeth do.
If implants aren’t an option, other restorations—like bridges or dentures—can still restore function and appearance. However, they don’t provide the same direct stimulation to the bone. In those cases, your dentist may discuss other strategies, like bone grafting or regular monitoring, to help preserve your jaw health.
Tooth Replacement and Bone Grafting in Overland Park at Blue Valley Smiles
At Blue Valley Smiles in Overland Park, Dr. Rachel Karabas and Dr. Todd O’Neil take bone health seriously. If you’ve recently lost a tooth—or are considering replacement options—we’re here to help you protect your long-term oral health.
We’ll walk you through your options, talk about your goals, and make sure your treatment supports not just your smile, but the foundation behind it. Bone loss may be common, but with the right plan, it doesn’t have to be your future.