Procedures

Bone Grafting

Major and minor bone grafting

Why You May Need Extra Support (Grafting) for Upper Back Implants

Before Tooth Extraction

Bone Loss Following Tooth Extraction

Implant In Place After Sinus Grafting

Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth atrophies or is resorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, most patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants.

We now 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 functionality and esthetic appearance. The bone graft procedures are referred to as:

• Sinus lift procedure
  This procedure involves elevating the sinus membrane and placing the bone graft onto the sinus floor, allowing implants to be placed in the back part of the upper jaw.
• Ridge-augmentation
  In severe cases the ridge has been resorbed and a bone graft is placed to increase the ridge height and/or width.
• Nerve- repositioning
  The inferior alveolar nerve, which gives feeling to the lower lip and chin, may need to be moved in order to make room for placement of dental implants to the lower jaw.

These procedures may be performed separately or together, depending upon the individual's condition. There are several areas of the body which are suitable for attaining bone grafts. In the maxillofacial region, bone grafts can be taken from inside the mouth, in the area of the chin or third molar region or in the upper jaw behind the last tooth. In more extensive situations, a greater quantity of bone can be attained from the hip or the outer aspect of the tibia at the knee.

Although many of these surgical procedures are accomplished in the outpatient office setting, some surgical procedures are best done under general anesthesia at one of our local hospitals.