Bone Grafting

The roots of healthy teeth stimulate the bone beneath the gums. When teeth are missing, this vital stimulation of the jaw bone is lost, and bone loss can occur. Other things, such as infection or a facial injury, can also cause loss of bone in the jaw. Consequences of progressive bone loss include recession of gum tissue and distortion of facial features – if the loss is severe, a patient may not qualify for certain tooth replacement options, such as dental implants. Fortunately, at Lakeside Oral, Facial and Dental Implant Surgery, we offer bone grafting procedures that restore or replace lost bone and preserve your oral health for successful tooth restoration.

Types of Bone Grafting Procedures

Bone grafting is a common first step for dental implant patients. Not only does bone grafting provide a stable foundation for dental implants, it also preserves or restores facial aesthetics, improves oral health, and stimulates new bone growth. All bone grafting procedures consist of the application of a solution of granulated bone material, growth factors, and other healing agents in the areas of the jaw that lack the right amount or quality of bone. This bone material can be harvested from another part of your body or come from a tissue bank, depending on the procedure. Dr. Bale has years of experience performing a variety of bone grafting procedures.

When determining the best type of bone grafting procedure for you, Dr. Bale will consider your treatment goals, the severity of bone loss, and more.

The following are the most common bone grafting procedures:

• Sinus lifts graft bone above the upper molars when the wall dividing the sinus from the oral cavity is too thin. This procedure creates a supportive foundation for one or several dental implants.
• Socket preservation prevents bone loss and prepares for an eventual dental implant by placing a bone graft into the empty socket immediately after a tooth extraction.
• Ridge expansion adds height and/or width to the alveolar ridge if it is too thin.
• Major bone grafting replaces or restores a large amount of bone in the jaw. Patients who have experienced facial trauma, periodontal disease, a facial tumor, or a congenital disability may require major bone grafting. This dental surgical procedure often involves more extensive techniques to direct the growth of new bone and tissue. Major bone grafting procedures may require an overnight stay in a hospital or care facility.