- Jaw deterioration can be caused by Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ), trauma, arthritis, bruxism, and poor dental care/hygiene.
- Replacing missing teeth with titanium implants helps maintain a healthy jaw.
- Good oral hygiene is essential for preventing jaw deterioration.
- Maintaining a balanced diet that includes crunchy fruits and vegetables helps strengthen enamel and reduces acidity in the mouth.
- With proper care, individuals can keep their jaws healthy and strong.
Your jaw is an essential part of your body. It helps you speak, chew, and even breathe. However, did you know that your jaw can deteriorate? Yes, that’s right. Jaw deterioration can happen to anyone, and it can be pretty devastating. Here’s what you need to know about it, why it might deteriorate, and how to prevent it.
Parts of The Jaw
The human jaw comprises two bones: the maxilla and the mandible. The maxilla is the upper or superior bone of the jaw; it is shaped like a horseshoe and helps form the roof of the mouth. The mandible, by contrast, is the jaw’s lower bone and supports the lower teeth. A series of ligaments and muscles hold together both bones.
Several other essential structures make up the human jaw from these two main components. These include the temporomandibular joint, which allows for movement and enables people to talk, chew, yawn, and open their mouths. Seven sets of molars on each side of the jaws support grinding food when we chew. Other smaller parts, such as ridges, bumps, and pits, also play an essential role in helping us chew and speak properly.
Additionally, many nerves close to these bones help send sensation signals from one part of the body to another.
The jaw is a constantly used part of the body, which can become damaged over time due to several factors. Here are some of those ways:
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ)
ONJ is a rare but severe condition that can cause your jaw to deteriorate. It’s a condition that occurs when the bone tissue in the jaw doesn’t heal correctly, leading to death or necrosis. This condition mostly affects people with dental surgery and those on medication for cancer treatment and osteoporosis.
Trauma
Trauma to the jaw is another way that it can deteriorate. A blow to the jaw can lead to fractures, dislocations, and even misalignment of the teeth. If not treated promptly, this trauma can cause severe problems, impacting the jaw’s functionality.
Arthritis
Most people associate arthritis with the joints in their hands, hips, or knees; however, it can also cause problems with your jaw. Arthritis affects your jaw by leading to inflammation and progressive damage to the muscles and joints. This damage can interfere with the smooth function of the jaw and lead to its deterioration.
Bruxism
Bruxism, called teeth grinding, wears down the enamel and can lead to jaw deterioration. If left unchecked, Bruxism puts immense pressure on the teeth and jaws, especially when doing it frequently.
Poor Dental Care and Hygiene
Poor dental care and hygiene lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral infections, ultimately leading to jaw deterioration. These infections cause bone loss and weaken the jaw, leading to the mouth’s structural imbalance.
How to Prevent Jaw Deterioration
Thankfully, there are ways to prevent jaw deterioration. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy jaw:
Replace Any Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can damage your jaw in two ways. First, it can stress your existing teeth by forcing them to work harder. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other infections. Secondly, it can cause misalignment of your jawbone, leading to improper chewing. You can replace missing teeth with robust dental implants. These titanium implants mimic your natural teeth to help you confidently eat, talk, and smile.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy jaw. Brushing and flossing regularly can help remove plaque buildup that causes tooth decay. It’s also important to visit your dentist twice yearly for routine checkups and cleanings. This will help keep any dental problems under control and protect against further jaw deterioration.
Maintain A Balanced Diet
Your diet is essential in protecting your jaws from wear-and-tear damage over time. Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables can increase saliva production and reduce the acidity of your mouth, helping strengthen the enamel of your teeth over time.
Jaw deterioration can be a severe issue, but it is preventable. By taking proactive steps to protect your jaw—such as maintaining good oral hygiene and eating a balanced diet—you can keep your jaw healthy for years. If you are experiencing any issues with your jaw, visit your dentist or doctor immediately. With the proper care, you’ll have a strong and healthy jaw in no time!