Bone Grafting

Most patients do not realize that tooth loss results in immediate bone lost in the jawbone and that this process or resorption continues over time. Eventually, there is inadequate bone quality or quantity for implant placement.

Today bone can be grafted to a deficient site, so that new bone can develop. This gives us the opportunity to place implants and the opportunity to achieve a more natural function and appearance.

Sinus Lift Procedure

Once teeth are lost in the upper jaw, the sinus expands or increases in size. This results in the loss of bone height and the ability to place implants of proper length in that area. The sinus can be easily modified by elevating the sinus membrane and placing a bone graft on the sinus floor. This is a routine procedure that is done with minimal post-operative discomfort. Most people express the ability to breathe easier as well.

Ridge Augmentation

Traumatic accidents or tooth loss can result in deficiencies or loss of bone width. This means that the jawbone is not wide enough to place implants. A block of bone can usually be taken from the back of the jaw or the chin and grafted in the deficient area. This provides a source of new bone and increased width. Post-operative discomfort and recovery time is usually minimal.

Bone Sources

It is best to use the patients' own bone, which is called autogeneous bone to achieve optimum results. This is well supported by the current implant literature. Bone grafts can usually be taken from inside the mouth, in the area of the third molars the chin or even the upper jaw behind the last tooth. In cases of extensive bone loss, due to tooth loss over many years or trauma from an accident, a larger quantity of bone can be taken from the hip. In situations with minimal bone implants should receive strong consideration.

The surgeries can be performed in our office with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation. Patient responses have been excellent.