If you are considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, you may have heard of a procedure called bone grafting. But what is bone grafting, and why is it sometimes necessary for successful dental implant placement? In this post, Sonora dentist Dr. Justin Liggett at Morning Star Dentistry will share professional insights on bone grafting in dental implants.
What is Bone Grafting in Dental Implants?
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that involves taking bone from a donor source and transplanting it to the site where dental implants will be placed. This process is designed to augment or enhance the existing bone structure in your jaw, which may have deteriorated or become too thin to support dental implants on its own.
Why Might I Need Bone Grafting for Dental Implants?
There are several reasons why you may need bone grafting as part of your dental implant procedure:
- Bone loss. If you have been missing teeth for a prolonged period of time, the underlying bone in your jaw may have started to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. This can make it more difficult to place dental implants securely.
- Gum disease. Advanced gum disease can cause the bone in your jaw to weaken and recede, which can also make dental implant placement more challenging.
- Trauma or injury. If you have experienced trauma or injury to your jaw, this may have damaged the bone structure and made it less able to support dental implants.
- Anatomical factors. In some cases, the natural anatomy of your jaw may not be sufficient to support dental implants, in which case bone grafting can be used to create a more favorable environment.
How Does Bone Grafting Work for Dental Implants?
The bone grafting process usually involves the following steps:
- Consultation and evaluation. Dr. Liggett will evaluate your oral health and bone structure to determine if bone grafting is necessary for your dental implant procedure.
- Bone graft placement. If bone grafting is recommended, Dr. Liggett will use a donor source and the bone graft material will be placed in the area where dental implants will be inserted.
- Healing and integration. Over time, the bone graft material will integrate with your existing bone, creating a stronger foundation for dental implant placement.
- Implant placement. Once the bone graft has fully healed, Dr. Liggett will place the dental implants securely in your jawbone.
Is Bone Grafting Right for Me?
Whether or not you need bone grafting as part of your dental implant procedure will depend on your individual circumstances. During your consultation with Dr. Liggett at Morning Star Dentistry, he will evaluate your oral health and bone structure and recommend the best treatment plan for you. If bone grafting is recommended, it can significantly improve the success and longevity of your dental implant procedure.
Conclusion
Bone grafting is an important surgical procedure that can improve the success of dental implant placement for patients with bone loss, gum disease, or other anatomical factors that make implant placement challenging. If you are considering dental implants, it’s important to work with a qualified and experienced dentist like Dr. Justin Liggett at Morning Star Dentistry who can evaluate your individual needs.
