When it comes to replacing lost teeth with dental implants, every patient has a slightly different experience. Some individuals can get their new prosthetic tooth roots shortly after their initial consultation. Others, though, need to undergo a bone grafting procedure first. Why is bone grafting often necessary before dental implant placement, and how might it affect your tooth replacement journey? This blog post explains.
Why Bone Grafting Is Necessary
Dental implants require a strong foundation in your jawbone in order to anchor securely in your mouth and function optimally. If the bone structure is insufficient, complications may arise, such as:
- Implant failure due to lack of stability
- Poor aesthetic outcomes
- Difficulty achieving proper alignment with adjacent teeth
Bone grafting aims to prevent such issues. During this procedure, your oral surgeon will place bone material at the locations where your dental implants will be placed. Your body will integrate the grafted material, resulting in a jawbone that can provide a sturdy base for your new teeth.
How to Tell if You Need a Bone Graft
The only way to know for certain whether you need a bone graft is to consult a qualified care provider, such as an oral surgeon. They will conduct a thorough assessment, which may include an examination, X-rays, or a CBCT scan to evaluate the quality and quantity of your jawbone.
However, if you identify with any of the following circumstances, there is a good chance that bone grafting will be recommended:
- Your missing tooth has been gone for several months or longer.
- You have experienced trauma or injury to your jawbone.
- You have, or previously had, advanced gum disease (periodontitis) that has caused bone loss.
- Your dental professional notes that your jawbone appears thin or weak.
What to Expect with Bone Grafting
The bone grafting process may vary depending on your unique situation and the type of graft required. In some instances, patients can receive a bone graft and dental implant placement during the same appointment. This is typically possible when only a minor graft is needed. For more extensive bone loss, a waiting period of several months may be necessary between the two procedures.
Your oral surgeon will explain the process, materials used, and expected recovery time that apply to your unique case. Feel free to ask questions so you fully understand the road ahead.
Bone grafting might seem like an inconvenience on your path to rebuilding your smile, but it is actually something to be grateful for! Indeed, it can contribute to a strong and highly functional set of teeth that stands the test of time.
Meet the Practice
Our practice is home to four highly skilled oral surgeons, who work to provide a range of advanced dental implant services, including various kinds of bone grafts and dental implant placement. If you would like to learn more about the tooth replacement process, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact Piney Point Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Katy at 832-353-1100.