Bone grafting may be required if the patient doesn’t have enough bone density for dental implants or if they suffer from bone loss that is threatening the nearby teeth and gums. The bone graft is surgically placed into and fuses with the existing bone in the jaw.
Understanding How a Dental Bone Graft Works
Dental bone grafting methods may vary. However, the core principle remains the same. The dentist or oral surgeon makes an incision in the jawbone and transplants or grafts additional bone material to it. Once the graft is placed, it begins to fuse with the jawbone and adds mass.
Types of Bone Grafts
- Autografts: Your own bones, such as the ones in your hips can be used for this type of graft.
- Xenografts: Usually, a bone from another species is involved, such as bones from cows, pigs, or coral.
- Allografts: Grafts from another individual, usually a cadaver, are used here.
- Alloplastic grafts: In this case, the graft is made from artificial materials, such as calcium phosphate (bioglass).
When Is a Bone Graft Necessary?
If you suffer from any of the following conditions, you may need a dental bone graft:
- Insufficient Bone Density for Implants
Dental bone grafts are commonly used by patients who are getting implants to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are screw-shaped artificial anchors that are inserted into the jawbone. The implant is subsequently covered with a crown that resembles the natural teeth. Bone grafting is frequently required to create a stable foundation for implants.
- Gum Disease or Tooth Loss
Bone grafting may be required even if you aren't getting an implant to maintain a portion of the jaw that has lost bone due to tooth loss or severe gum disease. Bone loss can cause the adjacent teeth and gum tissue to deteriorate. A bone graft can help prevent more bone loss by stabilizing the jaw.
With over 30 years of experience offering exceptional dental services to our community, at Cheyenne Mountain Dental Group, we are still continuing our journey, under the leadership of Dr. Stephen Davis along with Dr. Bill Bertsch. For more details and appointments, call us at (719) 576-3276, book online, or visit us directly at 3605 Star Ranch Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906.
