Introduction
Over a period of time, the jaw bone associated with missing teeth atrophies and is reabsorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for the placement of dental implants. Today, we have the ability to grow bone where it is needed. With bone grafting, we have the opportunity to not only replace bone where it is missing, but we also have the ability to promote new bone growth in that location.
Socket Preservation & Extraction Repair
Bone grafting can repair implant sites with inadequate bone structure due to previous extractions, gum disease, or injuries.
- Restoring the Foundation: Missing teeth over a period of time can cause your jaw bone to atrophy, or resorb. Grafting addresses this, creating a condition suitable for the placement of dental implants.
- Guided Regeneration: Special membranes may be utilized that dissolve under the gum to protect the bone graft, as well as encourage bone regeneration. This is called guided bone regeneration, or guided tissue regeneration.
Sinus Lifts
Sinus bone grafts are performed to replace bone in the posterior upper jaw.
- Why it is needed: When the upper jaw lacks sufficient bone, these grafts are essential to ensure the implant has a stable foundation.
- The Procedure: Similar to other grafts, this can be done using various bone sources, including autogenous bone or bone graft substitutes.
Ridge Restoration
Most patients with bone loss or atrophy are not candidates for the placement of dental implants without intervention.
- Restoring Dimensions: Bone grafting gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width.
- Aesthetics and Function: Beyond just fitting the implant, grafting gives us a chance to restore functionality and aesthetic appearance.
- Major Repairs: For larger defects arising from traumatic injuries or congenital defects, major bone grafts can be performed to repair the jaws.