Bone Grafts
What is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure used to replace deteriorated bone in the jaw or around teeth.Bone loss can occur as a result of a variety of conditions, such as gum disease, tooth decay, or trauma to the mouth. Various bone grafting procedures can be used to replace lost bone tissue and promote natural bone growth.The most common type of bone grafting procedure includes the use of a bone mineral powder to stimulate your stem cells to grow new bone, whether it be around a tooth or for a dental implant. A bone graft acts as a scaffold which is eventually replaced with your own healthy bone. Bone grafting helps postpone tooth loss, improve tooth replacement with implants, and restore function and esthetic appearance.
Why is Bone Grafting needed?
Gum disease is an incredibly common condition that causes bone loss over time. Left untreated, the destruction continues to the point of tooth loss. In certain situations, and when addressed in time, bone grafting can regenerate bone around the affected teeth. This can strengthen the tooth and postpone tooth loss, as well as prevent further damage to the adjacent teeth.A tooth with infection due to decay or fracture can also lose bone rapidly. Regardless of the cause of tooth loss, having teeth removed can eventually have an impact on the bone underneath. Implants need a strong foundation for successful anchorage and function. Usually, the longer the tooth has been missing, the greater the bone loss, making the bone too thin to support a dental implant. One of the most common reasons for bone grafting is to prepare the areas of bone loss around the jaw for dental implants.
Who is a candidate for Bone Grafting?
To determine if you might need bone grafting done, we will conduct a clinical exam and evaluate your x-rays. Additionally, CT scans are commonly done to help alert us if there are areas of bone loss around the jaw, and if so, the best way to go about placing the new bone material. In addition to regenerating jaw bone due to previously lost teeth or gum disease, a bone graft is often recommended when requiring an extraction. This will preserve the shape of your jaw and overlying gum for a replacement tooth, and minimizes bone loss on the neighboring healthy teeth. We will discuss the best course of action when placing the bone and having the procedure done in our office. For many patients, depending on the quantity of their bone, implant placement and bone grafting can be done simultaneously in a single visit.
What happens during Bone Grafting?
The first step is to consult with you and determine what type of bone material and technique is right for your needs. We only use sterile materials from accredited tissue banks that follow the highest safety rules with the most predictable long-term data. To ensure your comfort, we use a strong local anesthetic to numb the area of your mouth we are treating. Additionally, some patients may prefer to have sedation of their choice to be more relaxed. A small incision is made in the gum tissue to gently separate it from the bone. The bone graft material is placed in the deficient area, and a bone growth factor may be applied to the area to help the bone blend better with the surrounding bone. The gum is sutured in place and a follow up appointment will be made to assess your progress. If you think you might benefit from bone grafting, call our office today and we will be more than happy to further assist you in answering your questions.