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Bone grafting might sound like a serious and even scary procedure, but it’s actually quite common and not too difficult for your body to tolerate. There are different reasons you might need bone grafting, so the best thing you can do is to discuss the issue with your dentist.
At Ueno Center Dental Specialists, we offer a number of options for bone grafting as well as clear, helpful information about why you might need this procedure.
Our founder, Jeremy K. Ueno, DMD, and the rest of our providers want to ensure that our patients in need of a bone graft feel informed and comfortable with the procedure as well as clear on the reasons why a bone graft might not only be helpful but necessary.
The lowdown on bone grafts
Bone grafting is a procedure used to strengthen weak bones so they regain their sturdiness and form. It isn’t just a dental procedure, but when used in the context of dentistry, it is focused on the jawbone.
We have several options for bone grafting. We can take bone from another part of your mouth and place it in the affected area, or we can use bone from another natural source such as through a post-mortem donation or from an animal
The final type of bone grafting material is synthetic, but this isn’t as effective as the bone material that comes from one of the other options. Why? Because the natural bone eventually begins to regenerate, replacing the grafted bone. Synthetic material isn’t as effective at triggering bone regeneration.
According to a 2021 study, around 2.2 million dental bone grafts are performed annually.
What bone grafting is used for
As we mentioned above, dental bone grafting helps to strengthen weakened jawbones. But why would someone need bone grafting? Here are several reasons this procedure might be necessary and effective.
After a tooth extraction
If you are having a tooth removed, you might need a bone graft to protect the empty socket. This is called socket preservation or ridge preservation. This is necessary if there is a danger that the sides of the empty socket could collapse in on themselves.
Supporting implants
Getting a dental implant is often the next step after a tooth extraction. But some people are not able to have dental implants placed safely if their jawbone isn’t strong enough. A bone graft can strengthen the jawbone so it can support an implant.
Reversing the effects of periodontal disease
Periodontal disease often causes severe side effects. One of these can be the loss of bone density, especially when the disease has been left untreated for far too long.
Of course, the effects of late-stage periodontal disease may not be fully reversible, but bone grafting can help strengthen the jawbone.
Preparing for dentures
If you’re ready to get dentures, you may have been without some or many of your teeth for a long time. As a result, your jawbone may be extremely thin, and getting dentures may cause your facial structure to look different than what you’re used to.
Ridge augmentation — a kind of bone grafting — is helpful in this instance.
Do I need bone grafting?
Most adults are good candidates for bone grafting. The procedure is usually well-tolerated and provides a strong, sturdy bone structure that supports good oral health before and after additional procedures.
But the most important thing you can do is to visit us, so we can discuss your situation with you and determine which type of bone grafting is best for your needs. For an appointment at our Campbell, California, office, call us today.