Bone Grafting

Major and Minor Bone Grafting

Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth often atrophies or is resorbed, leaving a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone. These patients are not suitable candidates for implants unless the bony foundation is restored with a bone graft.

We now have the ability to grow bone where needed. This ability not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, it also gives us a chance to restore function and esthetic appearance. The bone graft procedures are referred to as:

Socket Preservation Graft

After a tooth is extracted, the bony socket will heal with a variable amount of resorbtion or "melting away." A simple bone graft to the socket at the time of extraction will preserve the bone, which will simplify the placement of an implant or improve the appearance of a traditional bridge.

Sinus Lift Procedure

This procedure involves elevating the sinus membrane and placing the bone graft onto the sinus floor, allowing implants to be placed in the back part of the upper jaw

Ridge Augmentation

In severe cases the alveolar ridge (the part of the jaw that supports teeth) has been resorbed and a bone graft is placed to increase the ridge height and/or width.

Nerve Repositioning

The inferior alveolar nerve, which gives feeling to the lower lip and chin is located in the lower jaw, and may need to be moved in order to make room for placement of dental implants to the lower jaw.

These bone grafting procedures may be performed separately or in combination with implant placement, depending upon the individual's condition. There are several areas of the body that are suitable for attaining bone grafts. For smaller grafts, bone can be harvested from inside the mouth (the area of the chin or in the upper jaw behind the last tooth). In more extensive situations, a greater quantity of bone can be attained from the hip or from the lower leg.

These surgeries are performed either in the office or in the hospital under I.V. sedation or general anesthesia. Depending on the type of grafting procedure, physical activity may need to be limited during the first week of the recovery period.