Missing teeth over a period of time can cause your jawbone to atrophy, or resorb. This often results in poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for the placement of dental implants as well as long term shifting of remaining teeth and changes to facial structure. Most patients, in these situations, are not candidates for dental implants.
Fortunately, today we have the ability to grow bone where it is needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, but it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and aesthetic appearance.
Bone grafting can repair implant sites with inadequate bone structure due to previous extractions, gum disease, or injuries. The bone is either obtained from a tissue bank or your own bone is taken from the jaw, hip or tibia (below the knee). 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 to protect the bone graft, as well as encourage bone regeneration. This is called guided bone regeneration, or guided tissue regeneration.
Major bone grafts are typically performed to repair defects of the jaws. These defects may arise as a result of traumatic injuries, tumor surgery, or congenital defects. Large defects are repaired using the patient’s own bone. This bone is harvested from a number of different areas depending on the size needed. The skull (cranium), hip (iliac crest), and lateral knee (tibia), are common donor sites. These procedures are routinely performed in an operating room and require a hospital stay.
Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery is a leading provider of oral and maxillofacial surgical services, including bone grafting. Whether you need a bone graft to prepare for dental implants or to treat a bone defect or injury, our skilled surgeons will work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals. Learn more about this and the many other services we provide
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Good oral health and wellness go beyond just having an aesthetically pleasing smile. We want you to have a smile that functions perfectly and feels comfortable so that you can enjoy the benefits of lasting oral health for life. At Associates in Oral and Implant Surgery, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. Let us be your partners in oral surgery care.