What Is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a dental procedure used to build new bone in areas that are missing teeth. Bone is able to repair and regenerate if given the right conditions to do so. Bone grafting is like adding the frame work that allows your body to deposit new bone in an area. This is usually done to restore the level of bone needed to place a dental implant.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth supported by a titanium post which is securely placed in the jawbone. In order for an implant to be successful, it is very important to have enough bone in the area to support it.
If you are considering an implant, the area will be assessed to see if there is enough bone. If needed, a bone graft is done to prepare the area to ensure your dental implant is well-supported and will last for years to come.
Types Of Grafts
Autograft= tissue from another site on the same individual receiving the graft.
Allograft= tissue donated from a human cadaver.
Xenograft= tissue from an animal source.
Alloplastic=synthesized bone graft
Treatment
Bone grafting is a relatively simple procedure that is done under local anesthetic. There are additional sedation options available if needed.
An incision is made in the area receiving the bone graft and in the donor site (if applicable). Then the grafting material is added, and sutures are used to close the area. Following the procedure, you may experience some minor discomfort in the surgical areas. If post-surgery instructions are followed, and medication is taken as indicated, there is very little recovery time.
If a tooth is extracted with the intention of having an implant placed, a procedure can be done at the time of extraction called “socket preservation.” With no intervention, the bone around a tooth begins to deteriorate almost immediately after a tooth is removed. Socket preservation can make sure the bone stays intact until the implant is placed.
In some cases, only a small amount of bone is needed, and the grafting can be done at the same time as the implant placement. The best treatment plan for you will be determined by your dental professional.
Implants are becoming more common and are considered the gold standard in replacing missing teeth. Bone grafting allows more people to be successful candidates for implants.
Contact us if you think you need a bone graft or could benefit from bone grafting.