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Bone grafting is a standard procedure in dentistry. It is commonly performed prior to the placement of dental implants, although it may be necessary in other instances as well. Today, we will explore the different types of bone grafts, how the procedure works, and when this type of treatment is necessary. What is a Bone Graft? In dentistry, a bone graft is used to restore density and volume to the jawbone. Bone grafts may be either autogenous or non-autogenous. Autogenous grafts are harvested from the patient’s own body – generally from another area of the jaw. Non-autogenous grafts can be purchased from a bone and tissue bank. Common sources include bovine (cow), porcine (pig), and synthetic derivatives. The type of bone grafting material will most certainly depend on the type of procedure being performed and the complexity of your case. What Happens to the Jawbone after Tooth Loss? Bone grafting is sometimes necessary to rebuild congenitally missing bone, as some patients are simply born with areas of deficiency in the jaw. However, grafting is most commonly necessary following tooth loss or in preparation for dental implants. When a tooth is removed, the surrounding jawbone begins to “cave in” or shrink over time. This occurs because the teeth roots, which once stimulated the nerves in the jawbone, are no longer present. Therefore, the bony ridge begins to atrophy. Types of Bone Grafts We have already discussed the different materials used in bone grafting. Here, we will discuss the most common types of bone grafting techniques. Ridge Preservation Also referred to as a socket graft, ridge preservation is performed immediately after an extraction, during the same appointment. When a tooth is removed, it leaves a socket behind. If this hole is not filled, the bony walls around it can cave in, leading to significant bone loss in the site. A bone graft in the socket will serve as a scaffold and hold space while your own body repairs the area. This is commonly recommended following extractions, particularly if a dental implant is being considered to replace the tooth. Ridge Augmentation If teeth have been missing for a while – or if the bone never developed due to a genetic condition – ridge augmentation may be necessary to add height, width, and volume to the bone ridge. To perform this procedure, the jawbone is accessed through a small incision, and bone grafting material is added to the area of deficiency. Depending on the size of the bone graft necessary and the patient’s healing capacity, ridge augmentation can require four to nine months of healing. Sinus Lift Performed prior to dental implant placement in the upper jaw, a sinus lift is necessary when the maxillary sinus drops down into the void once inhabited by the teeth roots. To perform this procedure, an incision is made on the outer surface of the upper jaw. Once the bone is located, a small access window is created so that the sinus membrane is visible. The surgeon will carefully raise the membrane back to its original location and will pack bone grafting material beneath it for support. The bone graft, once healed, will serve as a foundation for dental implants. Due to the nature of this procedure, several months of healing are required. What about Molars? Patients commonly ask about bone grafting in the molar areas. First, it is important to note that bone grafts are never recommended or performed after wisdom teeth extraction. Secondly, because 95 percent of chewing function takes place on the first molars, forward, bone grafting is almost always recommended after the extraction of one of these teeth. However, there seems to be some degree of controversy surrounding bone grafts for second molars. Why? Because while they are certainly functional, these teeth are not absolutely necessary for optimal oral health. So, if you have a second molar extracted, should you have a socket graft performed at the same time? The answer will vary for every patient. For example, if your second molars are not in alignment with the rest of your bite, losing one will not significantly impact your chewing function. However, if the opposing tooth on the opposite arch is still present, you may wish to consider replacing the tooth with a dental implant. Therefore, a ridge preservation graft would be beneficial in this scenario. Learn More about Bone Grafting If you are missing teeth, or you will be having a tooth extracted soon, a bone graft may be advantageous for your long-term dental health. To learn more, reach out to the team at Metropolitan Dental Care in Denver and Lone Tree, CO. Feel free to call us at 303-534-2626 or contact us online anytime.
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bone grafting, dental implants, tooth extraction, bone preservation,
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