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.
Why might your dentist recommend a bone graft? Here are some of the most typical reasons you might need to undergo this procedure:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Older adults or individuals with conditions such as osteoporosis may also struggle with bone loss in their jaw.
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.drjstearns.com or call Platte Valley Oral Surgery at (303) 997-0220 for an appointment in our Denver office.
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