It’s true that dental implants have revolutionized the field
of restorative dentistry, and many patients with one or more missing teeth have
jumped on the opportunity to receive dental implants. However, during their
initial consultation, their dentist may inform them that they will need a bone
graft in order to proceed with implants.
Bone grafting sounds scary, but modern technology has created
a way for patients to restore their oral cavity with minimal pain and
predictable results.
Here’s How it Works
Typically, bone grafting involves the placement of the mineral
content from animal bone into the deteriorating human jaw. The bone is sterilized
and used as a placeholder for the human bone.
Through a process called “guided
tissue regeneration,” the human body begins to recognize the animal bone as
human and, over time, replaces the animal bone with natural human jaw bone
tissue.
There are three common bone grafting procedures that a
patient may receive.
- The Alveolar Ridge Preservation Graft
- The Autogenus Ramus Chin Graft
- The Subantral Graft
Patients may receive one or a combination of these bone
grafting procedures. The most beneficial procedure will be determined by your
dentist. During a consultation, your dentist will discuss varying bone grafting
options, as the procedure may be a prerequisite for dental implants.
Why Would You Need
Bone Grafting?
Prior to dental implants, dentures were the main form of
restoration for patients with missing teeth. Dentures, however, have caused
some setbacks for patients. It turns out that the main reason why we have
strong jaw bones is due to their support of our natural teeth. If our teeth go
missing, the jaw bone immediately begins to deteriorate.
Atrophy of the jaw bone also occurs in long-time denture
wearers, since there is nothing within the jaw bone for it to support. And when
a denture wearer opts for dental implants, a bone grafting procedure may be
needed to restore the bone that has been lost from years of denture use.
If your dentist suggests bone grafting before your implant
procedure, there is nothing to fear. Your dentist will thoroughly explain which
procedure they think is best, as well as how each of them work.
Your dentist
can answer any questions about the procedure pre or post-operative.
Have More Questions?
Give Us a Call!
Dr. Kowalik places and restores dental implants in his
Burbank dental office. For more information about dental implants and bone
grafting or to schedule a consultation, call us today!
