Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is often closely associated with dental restorations such as bridge work and dental implants. In the majority of cases, the success of a restoration procedure can hinge on the height, depth, and width of the jawbone at the implant site. When the jawbone is too damaged or receded, it can’t support implants, so it is usually recommended first.

There are several major factors that affect jaw bone volume:

• Periodontal Disease – Periodontal disease can affect and permanently damage the jaw bone that supports the teeth. Affected areas progressively worsen until the teeth become unstable.
• Tooth Extraction – Studies have shown that patients who have experienced a tooth extraction subsequently lose 40-60% of the bone surrounding the extraction site during the following three years. Loss of bone results in what is called a “bone defect”.
• Injuries and Infections – Dental injuries and other physical injuries resulting from a blow to the jaw can cause the bone to recede. Infections can also cause the jaw bone to recede in a similar way.

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. It 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 the procedure can positively impact the health and stability of the teeth:

• Jaw Stabilization –</strong> Bone grafting stabilizes and helps restore the jaw foundation for restorative or implant surgery. Deformities can also be corrected and the restructuring of the bone can provide added support.
• Preservation –</strong> Bone grafting can be used to limit or prevent bone recession following a tooth extraction, periodontal disease, or other invasive processes.

Oral Examination

Initially, the dentist will thoroughly examine the affected area in order to assess the general condition of the teeth and gums. Periodontal disease or poor adjacent teeth must be treated first before beginning the bone grafting procedure for best results. The dentist will also recommend panoramic x-rays in order to assess the precise depth and width of the existing bone. On occasion, a CAT scan may be recommended to determine the bone condition. Based on results, the dentist may numb the area and examine the gum to assess bone type and amount needed.</p>

What Does Bone Grafting Involve?

There ar

e several types of bone grafts. Your dentist will determine the best type for your particular condition.</p>

<li

>Autogenous Bone Graft – Harvested from the patient’s own body (usually from the posterior part of the lower jaw or the chin). This method is usually preferred because it produces the most predictable results. <li>Allograft Bone Graft -</strong> Cadaver or synthetic bone is used in this type of graft.

• <strong>Xenograft –

Cow bone is used in this type of graft.

• The bone grafting procedure can often take several months to complete. Bone is typically harvested from your own body (or on rare occasions obtained from a “bone bank”) and added to the affected site. This bone will fuse with the existing bone and the migration of cells will cause firm adhesion and cell growth. Supplementing the jaw with bone will result in greater bone mass to help support and anchor the implant(s).

During bone grafting in &amp;lt;a href=”https://www.google.com/maps/place/Thanksgiving+Point+Dental/@40.430198,-111.898796,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8752802dc5583dcf:0x8928aded5b90723d!8m2!3d40.430198!4d-111.898796!16s%2Fg%2F1tdgq9cx?sa=X&ved=1t:2428&ictx=111&entry=tts&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MDgyMy4wKgBIAVAD”>Lehi at Thanksgiving Point Dental, the dentist will numb the grafting and extraction sites with a local anesthetic. A small incision is made to prepare the area for the new bone, which is then carefully anchored into place. Sometimes, a synthetic membrane is placed over the graft to prevent soft tissue and bacteria from entering the area and to promote new bone growth. The surgery does not require an overnight stay, and you will be provided with comprehensive instructions for your post-operative care. The dentist will prescribe medications to help manage infection, discomfort and swelling.