Dental implants and bone grafting in West Orange often go hand-in-hand when treating tooth loss. As a result, it’s normal to assume you’ll need both procedures when you’re ready to replace your missing teeth, but that may not be true. Bone grafting is only recommended before the dental implant placement surgery under certain instances. Not sure if you’ll need bone grafting? Here’s what you need to know to ensure your new smile has a sturdy foundation.
How Does a Dental Implant Work?
When you lose a tooth, your jawbone’s density will slowly decrease because the root isn’t there to encourage new bone growth. Over time, any remaining teeth won’t have the support they need, so they will drift out of alignment. You’ll have an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and additional tooth loss. Although there are many options to replace missing teeth, there is only one that replicates the whole tooth.
A dental implant is the only treatment to recreate your entire tooth, including the root. A titanium post is surgically placed into your jaw to act as a root. Your jawbone will fuse to the post through a process called osseointegration. Your bone will provide a stable foundation for your restoration, which is attached to the post using an abutment. A dental implant must have enough bone to support it, or it will fail.
What is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a surgical treatment used to enhance areas of weakened bone. Bone from another area of the body or a donor is transplanted to the treatment site. Over the next several weeks, the graft integrates with the bone to improve its density.
Will I Need Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is often needed to correct facial injuries or development defects, but it can be used along with dental implants, too. There isn’t any way to determine if you’ll need bone grafting without first having a consultation with your implant dentist.
Besides a visual examination, they will also take a CT scan of your jawbone to determine if you’ll need the procedure. Generally, it’s recommended for people who have had untreated tooth loss for many years or infection in the bone. No matter the cause, thickening your bone will ensure your jaw can support your dental implants long-term with the right aftercare. Although it may add another step to your treatment plan, it’s time well spent to protect your investment from failure.
Stabilize Your Smile
If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth with the next best thing to what nature gave you, it’s time to see if dental implants are right for you. Don’t let bone grafting deter you from rebuilding a beautiful smile.
About Dr. Med Dawoud
Dr. Dawoud is a trusted cosmetic and implant dentist in the community for exceptional dental care. Besides earning his dental degree, he has completed advanced training in full-mouth reconstruction, including dental implants. He can rebuild a beautiful, functional smile. Contact our office today to see if you’re a candidate for dental implants.