WHEN DO PATIENTS NEED A MINOR BONE GRAFT?
A bone must be strong to do a dental implant. If it has atrophied due to missing teeth, a graft may be necessary to ensure the implant will remain intact. Patients will find that it also improves the aesthetic appearance.
A surgeon can utilize a bone graft to restore strength and functionality. This is called guided bone restoration or guided tissue restoration. It calls upon the body to heal itself, and the result is a strong bone which can handle an implant. That’s a win/win situation.
WHAT CAUSES MINOR BONE LOSS?
Gum disease, injuries, and tooth extractions are among the most common causes.
WHAT BONES ARE USED FOR GRAFTS?
Minor grafts can be done in the office surgery. Bones can be taken from the patient or may be drawn from a bone bank. The most common locations are the jaw, hip or tibia (lower leg). A sinus bone graft may replace missing bone in the posterior upper jaw. Surgeons also use special membranes that will protect the graft and encourage growth.
WHAT CAUSES MAJOR BONE LOSS?
Major causes include congenital defects, tumor surgery, and traumatic injuries. In these cases, our surgeons may completely repair all or part of a missing jaw.
HOW ARE MAJOR GRAFTS PERFORMED?
Major grafts require a hospital stay. To accomplish a major graft, bone may be taken from the tibia, hip or skull.