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Is Bone Grafting Right for You?

Dental Implants are an extremely common procedure to combat tooth loss. Millions of teeth are extracted every year, and most patients choose to utilize implantation because of its many benefits and its permanence. But sometimes there are specific measures that must be taken if bone erosion has become more aggressive—grafting may be required to anchor the implant properly. Implants typically work in a two-step process. The first step is to insert a small titanium post into the jawbone. The post is set over the course of a few weeks, allowing the bone to properly form around it. The second step is to attach a crown onto the post. The process will give you a restored, permanent smile that will allow you the ability to eat what you ate before your tooth loss, without the nuisance of denture care. But what happens if you don’t have enough bone to properly anchor the small post? To properly advance with the first step of the dental implant, the jaw bone must be restored to its original size. This is where bone grafting is utilized.

WHAT IS A BONE GRAFT?

Bone grafting is a process that replaces missing bone, and severe or complex fractures with existing bone from another part of the body or bone augmentation material. This procedure was originally developed in orthopedics to help patients who have suffered massive bone fractures. Today, grafting is most common in dental procedures. Typically, for implants, bone augmentation material is placed in the area with insufficient bone. Over time, the patient’s bone will grow into the new material, and the graft will be complete. The periodontist will then assess if the jawbone can support the implant, and the procedure can progress.

DO I NEED A BONE GRAFT?

This process is required for a variety of reasons. Sometimes when a tooth is lost, patients wait years before they seek replacement. Over that time, it is common for the bone to naturally wear down. If a cavity is serious enough, an infection can grow and form an abscess. This abscess can literally eat away the jawbone. Patients might also experience bone loss after extreme trauma. All of these situations could require bone grafting.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION WITH THE CENTER

To know if you qualify for bone grafting, or if you’re ready for dental implants, the first step is finding a doctor that’s right for you. If you want to learn more about bone grafting in Brentwood call the CENTER for Advanced Periodontal & Implant Therapy today to schedule a consultation. Dr. Aalam and Dr. Krivitsky are dedicated to providing their patients the most cutting edge, comfortable care possible. Contact us by phone at 310-826-8242 or fill out our contact form.

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