Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that augments or rebuilds the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for dental implants. When teeth are lost or extracted, the surrounding bone may deteriorate due to a lack of stimulation. Conditions like gum disease, trauma, or prolonged tooth loss can further reduce bone volume, making it insufficient to support an implant.
A bone graft involves placing bone material, sourced from your body, a donor, or synthetic materials, into the deficient area. Over time, this material integrates with your natural bone, creating a robust base for the implant.
Why Is Bone Grafting Necessary?
- Insufficient bone volume: Dental implants require a certain amount of bone to anchor securely.
- Bone loss from tooth extraction: Without a tooth root, the jawbone can resorb over time.
- Periodontal disease: Gum disease can erode bone, compromising implant candidacy.
- Trauma or injury: Fractures or damage to the jaw may necessitate bone repair.
- Aesthetic and functional needs: A strong jawbone ensures proper implant placement and a natural-looking smile.
Types of Bone Grafts
- Autograft (autogenous bone graft): Bone harvested from the patient’s own body, often from the chin, jaw, or hip.
- Allograft (donor bone graft): Bone from a human donor, typically processed and sterilized from a bone bank.
- Xenograft (animal-derived bone graft): Bone sourced from animals, usually cows, processed to be biocompatible.
- Alloplast (synthetic bone graft): Man-made materials like calcium phosphate or hydroxyapatite.
