Dental implants are one of the most successful and long-lasting tooth replacement options available today. However, for a dental implant to be successful, it requires a strong and healthy jawbone to anchor the implant post securely.
Unfortunately, many patients who have lost teeth also experience bone loss, especially if the tooth has been missing for a long time. This is where bone grafting comes into play.
What Is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a procedure that adds or regenerates bone in areas of the jaw where it has been lost or is insufficient for implant placement. This procedure is often a necessary step for patients who want dental implants but do not have enough natural bone to support the implant. Bone loss can occur due to gum disease, tooth loss, trauma or certain medical conditions.
There are several types of bone grafts used in periodontics, including autografts (bone taken from the patient’s own body), allografts (bone from a donor), and synthetic grafts. Your periodontist will determine the best type of graft for your situation based on the location and extent of the bone loss.
Bone grafting adds or regenerates bone in areas of the jaw where it has been lost or is insufficient for implant placement.
How Does Bone Grafting Work?
The bone grafting process begins with the placement of the graft material into the area where bone is needed. Over time, the graft integrates with the existing bone, stimulating new bone growth. Depending on the extent of the graft, the healing process can take several months. Once the bone has sufficiently healed and is strong enough, the dental implant can be placed.
While bone grafting may sound like a complex procedure, it is a routine part of implant preparation for many patients. If you have been told that you do not have enough bone for implants, do not give up on the idea of restoring your smile.
Bone grafting can help rebuild your jaw and pave the way for successful dental implant placement. Get in touch with The Perio Centre today to find out more about how we can help!
Dr Simon Stern is a registered Specialist Periodontist at The Perio Centre. His qualifications include BDS MJDF RCS (Eng) MClinDent MPerio RCS (Ed). He lectures at both national and international conferences, and has published papers in several well-respected journals.
