In some cases, certain patients do not have sufficient bone density to undergo dental implants treatment. If this is the case, a procedure known as bone grafting can be used to restore alveolar bone to heathy dimensions for the implants.
If you require implants to replace upper back teeth, you may need a sinus lift. This is when the sinus lining is lifted and the implants are placed before bone and osteoconductive material is packed around the implants.
What is bone grafting?
Bone grafting is a simple procedure where your own bone tissue or on some occasions, donor material, is used to rebuild your jaw. After your bone graft, you will need to wait several months before undergoing treatment for dental implants.
When is bone grafting necessary?
As mentioned above, bone grafting is commonly used to build bone up to support dental implants Tooth loss also leads to the loss of bone overtime. Circumstances when tooth loss occurs can be:
- Periodontal disease (gum disease).
- Cavities.
- Defects in the development of teeth in younger years.
Does bone grafting have a high success rate?
There is a very high success rate for bone grafting where dental implants are concerned. Smokers and those with an unhealthy lifestyle are more at risk of graft failure than those who have maintained good oral and overall health over their lifetime.
A little more about where the bone comes from…
If your own bone can be used then this will always be prioritised over donor material. The bone will generally come from them site in combination with bovine bone.
Dental implants procedure
Once you have had time to heal from your bone graft, you will be ready to go ahead with treatment for dental implants. You can read about the dental implants procedure in more detail here.
If you would like more information about bone grafting and the dental implants procedure, please do not hesitate to contact us.
061 539011
