Dental bone grafts are a common procedure used to help rebuild lost or damaged bone in the mouth. The procedure is often used to prepare the mouth for dental implants, but it can also be used to treat other problems.
What Exactly is a Dental Bone Graft?
A dental bone graft is a procedure in which new bone material is transplanted into the mouth to replace lost or damaged bone. The new bone material is typically taken from another area of the patient’s body, although it can also be artificial. The new bone material helps to support the existing bone and tooth structure, and can also help to improve the overall appearance of the mouth.
When Do You Need a Dental Bone Graft?
There are several reasons why you might need a dental bone graft, including:
Tooth loss: When a tooth is lost, the bone that once supported that tooth begins to break down. Over time, this can lead to a significant loss of bone in the mouth, making it difficult to place dental implants. A bone graft can help to rebuild the bone and provide a solid foundation for dental implants.
Periodontal disease: Periodontal disease is a serious infection of the gums and bone that can lead to tooth loss. A bone graft can help rebuild lost bone and support the remaining teeth.
Jawbone defects: Birth defects, trauma, and other conditions can lead to defects in the jawbone. A bone graft can help to fill in these defects and improve the overall appearance of the jaw.
What Are the Different Types of Dental Bone Grafts?
There are a few different types of dental bone grafts, including:
Autograft: The most common type of dental bone graft, an autograft is performed using bone from another area of the patient’s body. The bone is typically taken from the hip, rib, or tibia.
Allograft: An allograft is performed using bone from a donor. The bone is typically taken from a cadaver.
Xenograft: A xenograft is performed using bone from an animal. The bone is typically taken from a cow.
Synthetic: A synthetic bone graft is performed using artificial bone material. This type of bone graft is typically used in small procedures.
How is a Dental Bone Graft Performed?
A dental bone graft is performed under local anesthesia. Once the patient is numb, the surgeon will make an incision in the mouth. The method used for the incision will vary depending on the type of procedure being performed. Once the incision is made, the surgeon will place the bone graft material into the bone socket. The bone graft material is held in place with a special bone cement or bone screws. The incision will be closed, and the patient will be sent home.
Who is a Candidate for Dental Bone Graft?
The best candidates for dental bone graft are patients who have lost a tooth and want to replace it with a dental implant. Patients who have lost a tooth due to an injury or accident are also good candidates. Patients who have a tooth that is severely decayed or infected are also good candidates for a dental bone graft.
Conclusion
Dental bone grafting is a procedure that is performed to help improve the overall health of your teeth and gums. The procedure is often used to treat periodontal disease, which is an infection of the gums that can cause tooth loss. The procedure can also be used to improve the appearance of your smile by increasing the height of your teeth.
If you are looking for a reputable dentist in Danvers, MA, you should book an appointment with Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry. We will take care of your dental problems before things worsen. Please do not wait another minute and contact us now!