Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is a procedure commonly associated with dental restorations like bridge work and dental implants. The success of these procedures often depends on the height, depth, and width of the jawbone at the implant site. When the jawbone has receded or suffered significant damage, it becomes an unstable foundation that cannot support implants. In such cases, bone grafting is typically recommended to prepare the jawbone for the restoration.

Several factors can lead to a decrease in jawbone volume:

1. Periodontal Disease: This condition can damage the jawbone that supports the teeth, progressively worsening until the teeth become unstable.

2. Tooth Extraction: Studies show that after a tooth extraction, patients may lose 40-60% of the bone surrounding the extraction site within three years, resulting in a “bone defect.”

3. Injuries and Infections: Physical injuries to the jaw, such as from a blow, and infections can cause the jawbone to recede.

Reasons for bone grafts:

Bone grafting is a highly successful procedure that offers an alternative to missing teeth, diseased teeth, or tooth deformities. It can increase the height or width of the jawbone and fill in voids and defects.

There are two main ways in which bone grafting positively impacts tooth health and stability:

1. Jaw Stabilization: Bone grafting restores and stabilizes the jaw foundation, providing support for restorative or implant surgery. It can also correct deformities and enhance bone structure.

2. Preservation: Bone grafting can limit or prevent bone recession following tooth extraction, periodontal disease, or other invasive processes.

3. Oral Examination: The dentist will conduct a thorough examination of the affected area to assess the condition of the teeth and gums. If there is periodontal disease or issues with adjacent teeth, these will be addressed before the bone grafting procedure. Panoramic x-rays and, in some cases, a CAT scan may be taken to determine the depth and width of the existing bone. The dentist may also explore the gum area to assess the bone requirements.

What does bone grafting involve?

There are different types of bone grafts, and your dentist will determine the most suitable one for your specific condition:

1. Autogenous Bone Graft: Bone harvested from your own body, often from the posterior part of the lower jaw or the chin. This type is preferred as it provides predictable results.

2. Allograft Bone Graft: Cadaver or synthetic bone is used in this type of graft.

3. Xenograft: Cow bone is used in this type of graft.

The bone grafting procedure can take several months to complete. Bone is typically harvested from your own body or obtained from a bone bank and placed at the affected site. The new bone will fuse with the existing bone, promoting adhesion and cell growth. This supplementation strengthens the jawbone to support and anchor the implant(s).

During the surgery, the dentist will numb the grafting and extraction sites with local anesthetic. A small incision will be made to prepare the site for the new bone, which will be anchored in place. In some cases, a synthetic membrane may be used to cover the new bone, preventing soft tissue and bacterial invasion and promoting new bone growth. The procedure does not require an overnight stay, and you will receive detailed instructions for post-operative care. The dentist may prescribe medications to manage infection, discomfort, and swelling.

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