Bone Grafting

Major and minor bone grafting

Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth atrophies or is reabsorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, many patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants without proper bone grafting.

We now have the ability to grow bone where needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and esthetic appearance. Several bone graft procedures are referred to below.

Sinus lift procedure

This procedure involves elevating the sinus membrane and placing the bone graft onto the sinus floor, allowing implants to be placed in the back part of the upper jaw.
Ridge-augmentation

In some cases the ridge has been reabsorbed and a bone graft is placed to increase the ridge height and/or width.

Nerve-repositioning

The inferior alveolar nerve, which gives feeling to the lower lip and chin, may need to be moved in order to make room for placement of dental implants to the lower jaw.

Distraction Osteogenesis

Distraction osteogenesis can sometimes be used instead of bone grafts to add bone to the jaws. Recent advances in technology have provided the oral and maxillofacial surgeon with an easy to place and use distraction device that can be used to slowly grow bone in selected areas of bone loss which has occurred in the upper and lower jaws. The newly formed bone can then serve as an excellent foundation for dental implants.

These procedures may be performed separately or together, depending upon the individual's condition. There are several areas of the body which are suitable for obtaining bone grafts. In the maxillofacial region, bone grafts can be taken from inside the mouth, in the area of the chin or third molar region or in the upper jaw behind the last tooth. In more extensive situations, a greater quantity of bone can be attained from the hip or the outer aspect of the tibia at the knee.

Most of these surgeries are performed in our office surgical setting under IV sedation or general anesthesia. After discharge, bed rest is recommended for one day