Bone Grafting
Why Is Bone Grafting Necessary?
Missing teeth over a period of time can cause your jaw bone to atrophy, or resorb. This often results in poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for the placement of dental implants as well as long term shifting of remaining teeth and changes to facial structure. Most patients, in these situations, are not candidates for dental implants.
Fortunately, today we have the ability to grow bone where it is needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, but it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and aesthetic appearance.
Major Bone Grafting
Bone grafting can repair implant sites with inadequate bone structure due to previous extractions, gum disease, or injuries. The bone is either obtained from a tissue bank or your own bone is taken from the jaw, hip or tibia (below the knee). Sinus bone grafts are also performed to replace bone in the posterior upper jaw. In addition, 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.
Major bone grafts are typically performed to repair defects of the jaws. These defects may arise as a result of traumatic injuries, tumor surgery, or congenital defects. Large defects are repaired using the patient’s own bone. This bone is harvested from a number of different areas depending on the size needed. The skull (cranium), hip (iliac crest), and lateral knee (tibia), are common donor sites. These procedures are routinely performed in an operating room and require a hospital stay.
In Need of a Bone Graft?
Drs. Banghart or Waisath can utilize bone grafts to make your jawbone more suitable for the placement of dental implants, as well as repair defects of the jaws. Contact us today!
Bone Grafts FAQ
Why should I get a bone graft?
Bone grafts help stabilize the jaw, prevent further bone loss, and rebuilds bone in the socket to prevent a “dip” or “hole.” Bone grafts are especially important if you are having an implant and are very safe and natural.
Is a bone graft more painful than just an extraction?
No, the bone graft is a very simple procedure that requires just a few extra minutes but is not painful.
Where does the bone graft material come from?
The bone graft material comes from a tissue bank that provides safe and sterile donor bone.
Is it recommended that I be sedated during a bone graft?
Sedation is available but not necessary for a bone graft in most situations.