Bone Grafting
If you’ve lost one or more teeth from gum disease, tooth decay, or an injury, dental implants are one of the most aesthetic and effective ways to restore your smile.
Am I a Candidate?
If you currently experience the following, you may be a good candidate for bone grafting:
- Missing teeth
- Receding gums
- Jawbone deterioration
Types of Bone Grafts
Autograft
- Bone harvested from the patient’s own body
- Live cells allow it to regenerate
- One procedure to harvest the bone and a second procedure to mend the jawbone
Allograft
- Bone harvested from a cadaver/bone bank
- Cannot regenerate
- Offers a framework for the jawbone
Xenograft
- Bone collected from a cow
- Offers a framework for the jawbone
The Procedure
We will put you under local or general anesthesia before the procedure begins. A minimal incision will be made into your jawbone. Once the jawbone is opened, the bone graft material will be ready for deposit.
The bone graft material is deposited into the jawbone and secured with screws and pins. The affected area will be bandaged and stitched to allow for a healing period. As always, take any prescribed medication and antibiotics to get rid of bacteria. Your new jawbone will be ready for dental implant placement after healing!
