Bone Grafting
When teeth are missing, the underlying bone will atrophy or reabsorb over time. As a result, the remaining jawbone is no longer suitable for the placement of implants. In these cases, the patients are ruled out as candidates for dental implants. Call KK Dental to schedule a consultation to determine if implants are right for you.
However, today, we do have the ability to regenerate bone. This allows us to not only place implants properly, but it also allows us to restore aesthetic appearance and mouth function.
Bone grafting can build up areas with inadequate bone due to previous injuries, extractions, or gum disease. The grafting material is taken either from the patient’s own body or from a tissue bank. A sinus augmentation at KK Dental is also done to add bone to the posterior upper jaw. Also, special dissolvable membranes may be used to protect the grafting material and encourage regeneration. This is called guided tissue regeneration or guided bone regeneration.
Bone Grafts at KK Dental
Typically, your dentist will perform a bone graft to repair a jaw defect. These problems may arise after dental trauma, congenital disability, or tumor surgery. A patient’s bone is often used to repair a large defect. This material is harvested from several sites, depending on the size of the defect. The hip, lateral knee, and skull are commonly used sites. Bone grafting is usually performed in a hospital. The procedure will require an inpatient stay.
Allograft material is used in most cases to implement bone grafts for implant placement. This is bone derived from cadavers. It is used to help patients grow new bone. It is very safe and effective. Synthetic man-made materials also stimulate bone growth at the surgical site. In addition, we can also use factors from a patient’s blood to promote and accelerate bone formation in the affected areas.
Bone grafting is performed at KK Dental under IV sedation or general anesthesia. After discharge, bed rest for one day is recommended, and limited physical activity for one week.
FAQs
The jawbone depends on regular chewing pressure to maintain its shape and density. When a tooth is missing for a long time, the surrounding bone may gradually shrink because that area no longer receives normal stimulation during biting and chewing.
Bone grafting may be recommended when the jaw lacks sufficient healthy bone to support an implant securely. Rebuilding bone in weakened areas can help create a more stable foundation before implant placement is considered.
Yes, advanced gum disease can damage the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. Over time, untreated periodontal infection may gradually reduce bone support and affect tooth stability in the surrounding area.
During the procedure, grafting material is placed into an area where bone support has been lost. The area is then protected while the body gradually forms new bone around the graft during the healing process.
No, bone grafting may also be used after tooth extraction, jaw injury, infection, or advanced bone loss. In some situations, grafting helps preserve jaw structure even when implant treatment is not immediately planned.
Healing time depends on the size of the graft, overall oral health, and the condition of the surrounding bone. Some areas heal within a few months, while larger grafts may require additional healing time before further treatment begins.
When teeth are missing for many years, the surrounding jawbone may gradually lose volume and support. In some cases, rebuilding lost bone may help maintain facial structure and improve long-term oral function.
Healing may be affected by smoking, uncontrolled medical conditions, poor oral hygiene, or excessive pressure on the surgical area during recovery. Following post-treatment instructions carefully may help support more predictable healing.
In some situations, the graft may not fully integrate with the surrounding bone as expected. Healing complications, infection, smoking, or inadequate bone support may increase the risk of delayed or incomplete healing after the procedure.
A bone graft evaluation may be helpful if you have missing teeth, noticeable bone loss, or are considering future dental implants. At KK Dental, treatment recommendations are based on oral examination findings, jaw imaging, and long-term restorative treatment goals.
