A bone graft is a dental procedure that can treat bone loss or reinforce a patient’s jawbone in preparation for other surgeries. It is prevalent among individuals interested in dental implants and other restorative procedures.
The oral surgeon will reinforce the affected area with a type of bone graft during the surgery. The material can be sourced from the patient's bones, cadaver bones, animal bones, or synthetic material.
Even though bone grafting may sound like an intimidating procedure, it can be crucial for a patient’s dental health. Bone loss can lead to long-term conditions such as more lost teeth or even heart disease if left unchecked. It is also often a necessary step for individuals considering dental implants.
6 reasons you might need to get a bone graft
Why might your dentist recommend a bone graft? Here are some of the most typical reasons you might need to undergo this procedure:
1. Implants for missing teeth
Dental implants are secured into a patient’s jaw. Whether it is for a fixed denture or to replace missing teeth, the screw-like metal implant needs a strong, dense bone base to hold it stable.
Reinforcing the jawbone before implant surgery is one of the most common reasons patients receive a bone graft. In fact, according to a 2016 study, half of the individuals receiving implants end up needing a graft first.
2. Preparation for dentures
Both fixed and removable dentures need a solid base to function correctly. Patients who are interested in fixed dentures may need a graft before they can receive dental implants. As for removable dentures, the denture may not fit appropriately if the patient’s jaw loses too much density.
3. Tooth loss
Losing a tooth due to an accident or tooth extraction could be another reason to receive a bone graft. A patient’s jaw bone will start to deteriorate when they are missing one or more teeth. The jaw does not receive enough stimulation without a tooth to support and may need to be reinforced with a graft.
4. Periodontal disease
More commonly referred to as gum disease, periodontal disease can also cause a patient’s jawbone to deteriorate. The thinning bone could lead to loose teeth that may eventually fall out if left untreated.
5. Jaw injury
Patients who have suffered an injury to their jaw may require a bone graft. The graft can reinforce the bone and help it recover if the jaw is damaged or weak due to a traumatic event or other dental procedures. Just like other types of bone loss, the weakened jawbone could lead to loose teeth if not reinforced with a graft.
6. Osteoporosis
Older adults or individuals with conditions such as osteoporosis may also struggle with bone loss in their jaw.
Contact Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry for a bone graft consultation
Bone loss in your jaw affects more than just your dental health. Whether you are seeking treatment for a weakened jawbone or considering dental implants, a bone graft may be a necessary procedure to reinforce your jaw. Reach out to our clinic to schedule your consultation today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.westtexasperio.com or call Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (432) 538-3318 for an appointment in our Odessa office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Related Posts
Recovery Tips After Your Oral Surgery Procedure
Undergoing oral surgery can feel overwhelming, but proper post-operative care is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery. Whether you have had wisdom teeth removed, dental implants placed, or another procedure, following the …
How Tooth Replacement Enhances Oral Health and Confidence
Appearance may be one of the first things people think about when it comes to tooth replacement. However, improved appearance is just one of the many benefits of replacing missing teeth. Tooth …
The Impact of Periodontal Disease on Your Oral Health: What You Need to Know
Periodontal disease is a result of severe bacterial infection in the gum tissue. It causes many problems in the mouth. Knowing the impact of gum infection on your oral health can motivate …
Transform Your Smile With Expert Implant Dentistry
It is common for people to be self-conscious about their smile, and many do not realize just how big of an impact that expert implant dentistry can have. Implants provide functional and …