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Understanding Bone Grafting: Building a Strong Foundation
Bone grafting is frequently linked to dental restorations like bridge work and implants. The success of these procedures often depends on the height, depth, and width of the jawbone at the implant site. If the jawbone has receded or been damaged, it cannot support the implants effectively. In such cases, bone grafting is typically recommended to provide a stable foundation for the restoration.
Several key factors influence jawbone volume:
- Gum Disease : Periodontal disease can damage the jawbone that supports the teeth, with affected areas worsening over time, leading to tooth instability.
- Tooth Extraction – Research indicates that patients who undergo a tooth extraction may lose 40-60% of the bone around the extraction site within the next three years. This bone loss leads to the formation of a "bone defect."
- Injuries and Infections – Dental or physical injuries, such as a blow to the jaw, can lead to bone recession. Similarly, infections can cause the jawbone to recede in the same manner.
Reasons for Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a highly effective procedure in most cases and serves as a preferred alternative to missing, diseased, or malformed teeth. It can enhance the height and width of the jawbone while filling in any voids or defects.
Bone grafting can improve the health and stability of teeth in two primary ways:
Jaw Stabilization – Bone grafting helps stabilize and restore the jaw, creating a solid foundation for restorative or implant procedures. It can also correct deformities and provide additional support through bone restructuring.
Preservation – Bone grafting helps prevent or minimize bone loss after a tooth extraction, periodontal disease, or other invasive procedures.
Dental Examination
First, the dentist will conduct a thorough examination of the affected area to assess the overall health of the teeth and gums. If periodontal disease is present or the surrounding teeth are in poor condition, these issues will be treated before proceeding with the bone grafting procedure. The dentist may also recommend panoramic X-rays to evaluate the depth and width of the existing bone. In some cases, a CAT scan may be suggested to further assess the bone condition. Based on these findings, the dentist may numb the area and examine the gum tissue to determine the type and amount of bone needed.
What is Involved in Bone Grafting?
There are several types of bone grafts, and your dentist will determine the most suitable option based on your specific condition.
Autogenous Bone Graft – This type uses bone harvested from your own body, typically from the posterior lower jaw or chin. It is preferred due to its predictable results.
Allograft Bone Graft – This method involves using cadaver or synthetic bone.
Xenograft – This graft uses bone from cows.
The bone grafting procedure can take several months to complete. Bone is usually taken from your own body (or, in rare cases, from a bone bank) and added to the affected area. Over time, the new bone fuses with the existing bone, and the migration of cells leads to strong adhesion and growth. Adding bone to the jaw increases bone mass, which helps support and secure the implant(s).
During the procedure, the dentist will numb the grafting and extraction sites with a local anesthetic. A small incision will be made to prepare the site for the new bone, which will then be anchored in place. In some cases, a synthetic membrane may be used to cover the new bone, protecting it from soft tissue and bacterial invasions while promoting new bone growth. The surgery is typically outpatient, so you won’t need to stay overnight. Afterward, you’ll receive detailed post-operative care instructions, and the dentist will prescribe medications to help manage infection, discomfort, and swelling.