Bone Grafting

MAJOR & MINOR BONE GRAFTING

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

Today, we often have the ability to grow new bone where needed. 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 aesthetic appearance.

MAJOR BONE GRAFTING

Bone grafting can repair potential implant sites with inadequate bone structure due to previous extractions, gum disease or injuries. The bone is either obtained from a tissue bank or in some cases your own bone can be taken from a nearby site of the jaw. 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 and protect the bone graft and encourage bone regeneration. This is called guided bone regeneration or guided tissue regeneration.

MINOR BONE GRAFTING

Often it will be possible to place implants and perform bone grafting at the same time using graft material from a tissue bank or small amounts of your own bone from an adjacent site of the jaw.  This is also true for many sinus grafts in the upper posterior jaw. When grafting can be done together with implant placement there is a savings of both time and cost.

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