ABOUT BONE GRAFTING

WHAT IS BONE GRAFTING?

Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth atrophies is resorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, most patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants.

Fortunately, we have the ability to grow bone where needed. With bone grafting, we have the opportunity to replace bone where it is missing and promote new bone growth. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and esthetic appearance. Knowing the primary purpose of an implant is to support a crown in your mouth, our goal is to place implants in the ideal location.

TYPES OF BONE GRAFTS

There are a variety of bone grafts available. Bone grafts may be harvested from a nearby spot on your jaw, or often obtained commercially from donor sources. The doctors at Professional Periodontics select bone grafts that are safe and supported by research to be effective.

BONE GRAFTING PROCEDURES

Bone grafting can prepare the jawbone for dental implants. Often areas where teeth are missing have inadequate bone structure due to previous extractions, gum disease or injuries. The bone is  obtained from a tissue bank. Sinus bone grafts are also performed to replace bone in the posterior upper jaw. Many times bone and sinus grafting may be performed at the same time as dental implants to shorten overall treatment time. 

Additionally, bone grafting may be performed along teeth or implants that were affected by gum disease to restore lost support.