Bone Grafting for Dental Implants: Answers to All Your Questions

Dental implants are a tried-and-true method for replacing lost teeth, restoring a beautiful smile and the ability to chew food comfortably. Implants also protect the integrity and structure of the jawbone.

However, not all individuals who desire dental implants are candidates for the treatment. These patients may require a bone graft prior to implant placement.

Why you may require bone grafting

Before discussing bone grafting, you must first understand how dental implants function.

A dental implant comprises of a metal rod inserted into the empty tooth socket. In a matter of months, the rod fuses with the jawbone and functions as a tooth root. Then, an abutment is screwed into the rod, and finally, a crown is attached to the abutment. The final result is an implant that appears and operates like a natural tooth.

For dental implant surgery to be successful, the jawbone must be sufficiently robust and healthy to retain the implant for many years. If your jawbone is diseased or too thin, it may not accept or support the implant.

Bone grafting Charleston is a surgical treatment used to repair or reconstruct bones damaged by disease or trauma. When it comes to dental implants, bone grafting can strengthen a jawbone that is too thin or fragile to support one.

After the bone graft has healed, your mouth will be prepared for implant surgery.

How grafting bone works

Bone grafts come from different places.

· Allograft: Bone from a human donor is used in this bone graft.

· Autograft: A bone graft made from the patient's own bone, usually from the back of the jaw or the hip.

· Alloplast is a type of bone graft made from phosphorus, calcium, and other minerals.

· Xenograft - A bone graft that uses bone from a cow or horse.