Tooth loss has a far reaching effect on your appearance, dental and overall health! Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth melts away. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone. Unless corrected, patients in these situations are not candidates for placement of dental implants. Dental implants need bone to hold them in place!
Today, we 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 your teeth cosmetically.
Bone grafting is used to restore the lost bone dimension when the jaw ridge gets too thin to place implants. Once the bone graft material is placed under the gum, it heals much like an arm or leg in a cast. With proper care, in 4-6 months, the bone becomes strong enough to place dental implants, and you get new teeth.
To minimize your discomfort, Dr. Wolf will often use sterilized or synthetic bone which stimulates your own bone to grow into the repair site. It is effective, very safe and avoids a second surgical site. In addition, special membranes may be utilized that dissolve under the gum and protect the bone graft. We even use growth factors to accelerate and promote bone formation in graft areas. Depending on your need, grafts can also be taken from areas where the jaw has more than enough bone, in the area of the chin, third molar region or in the upper jaw behind the last tooth.
After discharge, bed rest is recommended for one day and limited physical activity for one week to allow the gum to heal and minimize bleeding. You will feel sore, in the area where the graft is placed, for 7-10 days. Pain is not usually reported by our patients. Following post operative instructions is critical for success and for a positive experience.
Visit our Before and After Gallery to view beautiful smiles.