Sometimes we think that dental problems only affect the teeth or the gums, but the bone that supports them can also be affected. When that bone loses vitality, we speak of maxillary bone necrosis. It is not common, but when it occurs it r requires professional attention.
Knowing its signs and acting in time can make a difference. Discover it in this article!
Maxillary bone necrosis
Maxillary bone necrosis appears when part of the bone of the upper jaw or the mandible stops receiving enough blood. Without blood supply, the bone does not get the oxygen or nutrients it needs to stay healthy. Little by little, that area loses vitality and can deteriorate. In some cases, the bone may even become visible inside the mouth.
It does not usually arise out of nowhere. It is often related to dental extractions, serious infections, or the prolonged use of certain medications, especially some used for osteoporosis or in cancer treatments. It can also appear in people who have received radiotherapy in the facial area. The problem does not always show up immediately; sometimes time passes from the triggering factor until the first signs appear.
Symptoms
The most frequent symptoms of this condition are:
- Pain in the jaw or upper jaw that does not go away.
- Swelling or redness of the gums.
- Visible bone inside the mouth.
- A feeling of numbness or pressure in the area.
- Persistent bad taste or bad breath.
- Difficulty chewing.
At first it may be mild, but if left untreated it can worsen.
People at risk of suffering from it
Those who take medications to strengthen bones over long periods, as happens in some treatments for osteoporosis or cancer, are at greater risk. Also people who have received radiotherapy to the head and neck.
Added to this are factors such as repeated dental infections, poor oral hygiene, or tobacco use, which make proper healing more difficult and lead to further complications.
Diagnosis and treatment of maxillary bone necrosis
When you begin to suspect that something is happening, it is important to assess the case as soon as possible. A timely check-up helps prevent the problem from progressing.
Diagnosis
To know whether maxillary bone necrosis exists, the first step is an examination at the clinic. The diagnosis usually consists of the following parts:
- Clinical examination: we directly observe the area to check for exposed bone, inflammation, or signs of infection.
- Medical history: we ask about current medications, previous illnesses, or treatments such as radiotherapy.
- X-rays or dental scan: these allow us to see the condition of the bone and determine the extent of the lesion.
- Symptom assessment: we analyze the pain, how long it has been present, and any recent changes.
With this information we can confirm the diagnosis and decide how to proceed.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the degree of involvement and the patient’s overall condition.
- Infection control: when necessary, antibiotics are prescribed.
- Specific mouth rinses: they help keep the area clean and reduce bacteria.
- Pain medication: adapted to each case.
- Regular follow-up: check-ups to monitor progress.
- Surgery in advanced cases: if the tissue is very damaged, it may need to be removed.
The goal is to stop the damage, relieve discomfort, and promote recovery.
We treat maxillary bone necrosis
At our dental clinic in Málaga and Torremolinos, we approach this type of problem with a close and realistic perspective. We study each case individually, listen to the patient, and clearly explain what is happening and what the options are.
At Gross Dentistas we have the appropriate diagnostic tools and we work to act in the most conservative way possible. We carry out continuous follow-up and resolve any questions throughout the entire process. Contact us if you think you have symptoms of maxillary bone necrosis.
Ortodoncista especializada en el sistema de ortodoncia invisible, extensa trayectoria profesional y un gran número de pacientes satisfechos con los resultados obtenidos tras la finalización de su tratamiento.
