If you are considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, you may need a bone graft to provide a strong, healthy foundation for the implants. At Buffalo Creek Dental, we offer bone grafting as part of our dental implant services to help our patients achieve the best possible results.
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in the area begins to deteriorate. Over time, the bone can become too thin or weak to support a dental implant. In these cases, a bone graft is necessary to build up the bone and provide a solid base for the implant.
There are several different types of bone grafting materials that can be used, including:
- Autogenous bone grafts: This type of bone graft uses bone from another part of the patient’s body, such as the hip or the jaw. This is considered the strongest and most reliable type of bone graft.
- Allografts: Allografts are bone grafts that are taken from a donor. The bone is carefully screened and sterilized to ensure safety.
- Xenografts: Xenografts are bone grafts that are taken from an animal, typically a cow. The bone is processed and treated to make it compatible with human bone.
- Synthetic bone grafts: Synthetic bone grafts are man-made materials that are designed to mimic the properties of natural bone.
The type of bone graft that is used will depend on the individual patient and the specific situation. Your dentist will discuss the different options with you and help you choose the best option for your needs.
The bone grafting procedure is typically performed in our office under local anesthesia. It involves making a small incision in the gum tissue to access the bone. The bone graft material is then placed in the area and secured with special screws or other fixation devices. The gum tissue is then closed with sutures.
After the bone grafting procedure, the grafted area will need time to heal. This typically takes several months. During this time, the bone will grow into and around the graft material, creating a strong, healthy foundation for the dental implant.
Once the bone has healed, the dental implant can be placed. This is typically done in a separate procedure, and involves surgically placing the implant into the grafted bone and allowing it to heal and fuse with the bone. Once the implant has integrated with the bone, an artificial tooth, or crown, can be attached to the implant.
If you are missing teeth and are considering dental implants, don’t hesitate to contact Buffalo Creek Dental to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team will evaluate your mouth and determine if a bone graft is necessary to provide a strong, healthy foundation for your implants. We will provide you with the highest-quality care and the best possible treatment to help restore your smile.
