Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for replacing missing teeth. They offer durability, stability, and a natural appearance. However, not everyone is immediately ready for the implant process. One common reason for a delay or additional procedure is insufficient jawbone density. This is where a bone graft comes in as a preparatory step that can be crucial for implant success.
Understanding the Role of Bone in Dental Implants
Dental implants rely on a strong, healthy jawbone to anchor the titanium post that acts as an artificial tooth root. Once implanted, this post needs to fuse with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration. If there isn’t enough bone to support the implant, it may not heal properly. This can lead to implant failure or instability.
Bone loss in the jaw can occur for several reasons, including periodontal (gum) disease, trauma, infection, or simply the natural resorption that follows tooth loss. When a tooth is missing, the jawbone in that area can begin to deteriorate over time. This is more common if the tooth has been gone for months or years without replacement. This deterioration reduces the volume and density of bone available for securing an implant.
What Is a Bone Graft?
A bone graft is a surgical procedure that builds up the bone in your jaw to create a solid foundation for dental implants. During the procedure, your oral surgeon places bone material in the area where bone is lacking. This material can come from your own body (autograft), a donor (allograft), animal sources (xenograft), or be synthetic (alloplast). Over time, the grafted material integrates with your natural bone, stimulating new growth and increasing bone density. The healing process after a bone graft can take several months, depending on the extent of bone loss and the type of graft used. Once the bone is strong enough, the implant procedure can proceed with a higher likelihood of success.
Who Might Need a Bone Graft?
Anyone who has experienced bone loss in their jaw may need a graft before getting dental implants. If you’ve had a missing tooth for a long period of time, it’s likely that the surrounding bone has started to shrink. Similarly, individuals who have suffered from advanced gum disease or trauma to the face or jaw may not have adequate bone left to support an implant.
Even patients who wear dentures for years may find that bone grafting is necessary if they transition to implants. Dentures don’t stimulate bone growth in the way that natural teeth or implants do, and the jaw can weaken over time. In some cases, your dentist may recommend a bone graft immediately following a tooth extraction if an implant is not being placed right away. This is a preventive measure that helps preserve the bone in preparation for a future implant.
How Your Dentist Determines the Need for a Graft
Advanced imaging techniques, such as dental X-rays and 3D cone beam CT scans, allow your dental professional to evaluate the condition of your jawbone. These images help determine the height, width, and density of the bone and whether a bone graft is necessary before proceeding with implant placement. If a graft is recommended, your dentist will walk you through the process, expected healing time, and what to expect in terms of recovery and results. The goal is to ensure your implants have the best possible foundation for long-term success.
Investing in Long-Term Success
While the idea of a bone graft might sound intimidating at first, it’s a common and highly effective procedure that significantly increases the chances of successful dental implants. Skipping this step when it’s needed can lead to complications and even implant failure, which often requires further intervention and more expense down the road.
Bone Graft Treatment in Skokie, IL
At North Shore Periodontics & Implantology, we are dedicated to helping you achieve a complete bite and fully smile. If you have missing teeth, dental implants may be able to help. But there are several pre-treatments that may be required prior to getting an implant. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options for tooth loss.