Bone Grafting For Dental Success
Bone grafting is commonly linked with dental procedures like bridge work and dental implants. The success of these procedures often depends on the condition of the jawbone at the implant site. If the jawbone has receded or been damaged, bone grafting may be necessary to provide a stable foundation for the restoration.
Several key factors influence the volume of jaw bone:
- Periodontal Disease: Periodontal disease can lead to permanent damage to the jaw bone that supports the teeth, causing instability in affected areas.
- Tooth Extraction: Research indicates that individuals who undergo tooth extractions may experience a loss of 40-60% of the bone surrounding the extraction site within three years, resulting in a bone defect.
- Injuries and Infections: Dental injuries, physical trauma to the jaw, and infections can all contribute to bone recession in the jaw, leading to potential complications.
Reasons for bone grafts
Bone grafting is a highly successful procedure in most cases. It is also a preferable alternative to having missing teeth, diseased teeth, or tooth deformities. Bone grafting can increase the height or width of the jawbone and fill in voids and defects in the bone.
There are essentially two basic ways in which bone grafting can positively impact the health and stability of the teeth:
- Jaw Stabilization: Bone grafting is essential for stabilizing and restoring the jaw foundation, especially for restorative or implant surgery. It can also correct deformities and provide additional support by restructuring the bone.
- Preservation: Bone grafting is effective in limiting or preventing bone recession after procedures such as tooth extraction, periodontal disease, or other invasive treatments.
Oral Examination
The dentist will start by conducting a thorough examination of the affected area to evaluate the overall health of the teeth and gums. If there is periodontal disease or if the nearby teeth are in poor shape, these issues will be addressed before the bone grafting procedure can proceed. The dentist may also suggest panoramic x-rays to determine the exact dimensions of the existing bone, and in some cases, a CAT scan may be necessary to assess the bone condition. Based on these findings, the dentist may numb the area and investigate the gum to determine the type and amount of bone needed for the procedure.
What Does Bone Grafting Involve?
Your dentist will assess your specific condition and choose the most suitable type of bone graft for you from the various options available.
- Autogenous Bone Graft: Obtained from the patient's own body, typically from the back of the lower jaw or the chin. This method is favored for its reliable outcomes.
- Allograft Bone Graft: Involves the use of cadaver or synthetic bone.
- Xenograft: Utilizes cow bone for the grafting procedure.
The bone grafting process may require several months to finish. Usually, bone is taken from your own body or, in rare cases, from a bone bank, and then placed at the site that needs it. Over time, the added bone will merge with the existing bone, leading to strong adhesion and cell growth. By supplementing the jaw with additional bone, it will increase bone mass to provide better support and stability for the implants.
The dentist will use local anesthetic to numb the grafting and extraction sites during the surgery. A small incision will be made to prepare the site for the new bone, which will be anchored into place. Sometimes, a synthetic membrane may be used to cover the new bone to prevent soft tissue and bacterial invasions and promote new bone growth. You will not need to stay overnight for the surgery, and you will receive detailed instructions for your post-operative care. The dentist will also prescribe medications to help with infection, discomfort, and swelling.