Following the loss of a tooth, the underlying bone decays over time, and eventually enough bone may be lost that a dental implant can no longer be placed. Fortunately, a dental bone graft is a safe and effective procedure that will help facilitate the regrowth of bone so an implant can be securely placed and you can return to having a bright, full smile. There are several different types of grafts made of the following: human (your own or donated), animal (typically cow), or synthetic materials. In rare case, if the patient only requires a minor bone graft it may be possible to place the implant during the same procedure, but in most cases, patients will have to wait several months for enough bone to regenerate. Once your periodontist is satisfied there is enough in place, the dental implant can be placed.
Dental Bone Graft Procedure
The dental bone graft procedure is very simple and straightforward. Before the graft is placed, a local anesthetic will be administered to ensure you do not experience any discomfort while the procedure is being performed. Once you are comfortable, your periodontist will make small incisions in your gum so they can access the area where the bone graft is to be placed. Once the graft is in place, this area is sewn shut and you can begin the healing process.
Types of Dental Bone Grafting
There are several different types of grafts that may be performed. What type of bone graft is used will largely depend on where the lost tooth is located and the extent of damage.
- A socket graft is the most common type of graft used and can either be synthetic or made of human tissue. The graft is placed directly into the socket. In addition to preventing the socket from collapsing, this graft will also help facilitate the regeneration of new bone, a process that usually takes four to six months.
- A block bone graft is required when there are significant jawbone defects. The material is harvested from a small block bone and is placed into the area of defect and secured with titanium screws.
- A lateral ridge preservation graft may be performed as part of a dental implant procedure in order to increase jawbone width. Both procedures typically take between four to six months to heal.
- Patients who require a dental implant in their upper jaw may require a sinus lift procedure. This procedure involves lifting the membrane of the sinus and placing graft material into this area to create enough bone to hold an implant. The healing process following a sinus lift may take up to one year, depending on your body’s natural healing process.
Is the Dental Bone Grafting Process Worth the Time and Money?
Because of the time and cost involved in getting a bone graft, waiting for it to heal, then having the titanium post placed and waiting for that to fully integrate with your jawbone, many people wonder if undertaking this procedure is really worth the effort. That is ultimately a decision you will have to make, but it is important to keep the many benefits you will enjoy once this process is done, such as:
- Reduced risk of bone loss
- Durable solution that provides permanent results
- Restored ability to enjoy all types of foods
- Full, natural looking smile
- Feels just like your regular teeth
- Speech is unaffected
- Low maintenance compared to dentures
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