Understanding Bone Loss After Tooth Extraction

What Happens to Your Jawbone After Extraction?

When a tooth is extracted, the jawbone that previously supported it begins to resorb — shrinking in both width and height. This process starts immediately and can result in 25-30% bone loss within the first year alone.

Why Does Bone Loss Happen?

Your jawbone needs stimulation from tooth roots to maintain its density and volume. When a tooth is removed, that stimulation stops, and the body begins to reabsorb the bone in that area. This process is called disuse atrophy — the same principle that causes muscle loss when you stop exercising.

Timeline of Bone Loss

• First 3 months: The most rapid bone loss occurs — up to 40% of width can be lost
• 6-12 months: Continued resorption; bone height begins to decrease
• 1-3 years: Significant dimensional changes; dentures may become loose
• 5+ years: Advanced atrophy; facial contours may change (“sunken” appearance)

How to Prevent Bone Loss

Socket Preservation (Ridge Preservation)

The most effective prevention is ridge preservation — placing bone graft material into the socket immediately after extraction. This maintains bone volume for future implant placement.

Immediate Implant Placement

In some cases, a dental implant can be placed at the same time as the extraction, eliminating the gap period when bone loss would occur.

Bone Grafting

If bone loss has already occurred, bone grafting can rebuild the jawbone to support implants and restore facial contours.

The Key Takeaway

Don’t wait to replace missing teeth. The longer you wait after extraction, the more bone you lose — and the more complex (and expensive) future treatment becomes. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ostovar to discuss your bone preservation options.

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