Your dentist may need to increase the amount of bone in your jaw when undergoing a dental implant procedure. Not every implant will require bone grafting. However, those that do should be sure to work with an experienced dental professional.
Your dentist will help you to understand the procedure before it begins and will walk you through the process to discuss what to expect. If you need an increase in jaw bone before a dental implant, do not hesitate to reach out to the Dental Associates of Basking Ridge. Our dental team will make sure you are taken care of through every step of the procedure.
What is bone grafting?
Bone grafting is used on patients who require an increase in the amount of bone in their jaw before they can undergo an implant procedure such as an implanted bridge or crown. Dentists can use a number of different sources of bone. This may include using bone from your own body, human bone from a tissue bank, mineral bone substitutes, or processed animal bones.
Generally, your own bone is the safest route to take and the most effective bone graft material. This is due to the fact that your body will be more inclined to accept the bone. If you are able to use bone from your own body, the process will include drilling into the jawbone for the implant placement to produce shavings. This step will have to be completed anyway, so this won’t include an extra procedure. If you require a larger amount of time, this can be acquired from other parts of the body. If you are unable to have bone grafted from your own body, there are alternative methods that will also be effective.
What are the different types of bone grafting?
The first category of bone grafting involves grafting as a separate surgery from the replacement placements. Typically, the bone grafting and implant procedure will be done months apart. The second option occurs when a patient already has enough bone to place the implant but still requires bone grafting to cover the sides of the implant. This can be done at the same time that implants are placed.
Bone grafting techniques include onlay grafting which involves placing the bone on top of the area where it is needed and sinus grafting which involves adding height to the bone behind the cheekbone.
Contact The Dental Associates of Basking Ridge
Dental Associates of Basking Ridge is a compassionate, gentle, and professional state-of-the-art dental practice serving Basking Ridge, Morris & Somerset County. Our office is always ready to greet our patients with a smile, take the time to answer any questions, and provide the quality dental services our patients expect. Please contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you!