Is Bone Graft Necessary for a Dental Implant?
When you postpone your decision to replace a missing tooth, this might lead to significant bone loss due to the previous tooth loss. One question that arises in your mind is whether or not you need a bone graft when you decide to go for a dental implant.
Because bone grafting adds a few months to the therapy timeframe, some patients may be hesitant to agree to it. However, suppose a bone transplant and recuperation period are indicated in your situation.
In that case, it will be a worthwhile investment of your time so that you may get the most out of your dental implants. Let us answer some questions concerning bone grafts and dental implants.
What Exactly Is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure in which diseased or damaged bones are repaired and rebuilt using transplanted bone. Bone grafts can be used to mend bones practically anywhere in the body.
Gum disease infection can destroy the bone that supports the teeth. Teeth become loose as a result of this. A periodontal bone graft is inserted around an existing tooth to limit movement and offer additional support.
Bone grafts for dental implants must usually heal completely before being implanted. However, recovery periods vary depending on the individual.
When is Bone Grafting Necessary?
A bone grafting procedure is required when you do not have a sufficient amount of healthy natural bones in your mouth capable of supporting dental implants.
Periodontal disease can lead to bone deterioration, resulting in tooth loss. This is because the germs eat away at the jawbone and the periodontal ligament, which connects the teeth to the bone, over time.
Within the first year, after a tooth is lost, the breadth of the bone is reduced by 25%. There would not be adequate surrounding jawbone to sustain a dental implant to replace a lost tooth if left untreated for a long time. It is impossible to restore bone mass after it has been lost, which is why a bone graft may be required.
Why Does Tooth Loss Cause Bone Loss?
When you lose a tooth, the bone that supports and holds your tooth starts to waste away. This bone is referred to as the alveolar bone. When atrophy begins to work in the alveolar bone, this loss affects the jawbone as well, as it is built up and strengthened every time you chew.
Remember that osseointegration is required for dental implants to function—that is, the implant must join with the bone to provide a strong foundation for the crown. It is hard to place an implant if there is no bone to work with. So if you need to replace your teeth, Lakeview Family Dental serves the population of Lakeview Terrace, Sylmar, and Pacoima for all your implant needs.
How Do Bone Grafts Work?
Your oral surgeon places a fresh piece of bone in the area where a bone needs to repair or connect during a bone transplant. The cells inside the new bone can then adhere to the old bone and form a seal.
Your oral surgeon's choice of bone transplant is determined by the level of dental decay and tooth loss that has resulted in bone loss, as well as the location of the missing tooth.
What Happens After The Bone Grafting Procedure?
When the oral surgeon is done with the bone grafting surgery, they will give you some antibiotics to prevent infection. Pain medication can also be given.
Before the Dentist can insert a dental implant, they must wait until the bone graft has adhered with the natural bones in your mouth. There is no specified amount of time as everyone is unique.
Regular checks will be required until your dentist determines that you are ready for dental implants at Lakeview Family Dental.
Does Everyone Need A Bone Graft Before Getting Dental Implants?
Bone grafting is only necessary for people who have been involved in an accident causing tooth loss and injury to the bone in the mouth and jaw. Periodontal disease can also necessitate bone grafting.
However, the only sure way to know if you need a bone graft before your dental implant surgery appointment is to check in with our Dentist at Lakeview Family Dental, and we will let you know whether you need a bone graft or not for your dental implant.
For a consultation, Call our office at 818-897-5055, or schedule an appointment online!
