Vertical Bone Loss
An angular pattern of alveolar bone resorption in which bone is lost at an oblique or vertical angle adjacent to a tooth root, creating an intrabony defect. Contrasted with horizontal bone loss.
Full Definition
Vertical bone loss, also called angular bone loss, is a radiographic and surgical finding in which alveolar bone resorbs at an angle to the long axis of the tooth, producing an intrabony (infrabony) defect beside the root surface. These defects are classified by the number of remaining osseous walls (one-wall, two-wall, three-wall, or combination defects), which influences regenerative treatment potential. Editors should confirm that authors use 'vertical' and 'angular' consistently, as both terms are correct but should not alternate without explanation. The term 'intrabony defect' describes the resulting defect morphology and is the preferred noun where the defect—rather than the loss pattern—is being described.
Usage
Usage note: 'Vertical bone loss' describes the pattern; 'intrabony defect' describes the resulting morphology. Authors sometimes use these interchangeably—query if clarity is needed.
In Context
- "A 7 mm intrabony defect consistent with vertical bone loss was detected on the mesial of tooth #30." — Periodontal case report
- "Three-wall defects resulting from vertical bone loss carry the best prognosis for regenerative therapy." — Continuing education article