Traditionally, a dental bone graft involves taking bone from elsewhere in the body and inserting it into the jaw to stimulate new growth. In modern practice, a composite material is often used instead to counter bone loss. Whether you need dental implants or are dealing with gum disease, there are several reasons the procedure is recommended by dentists. Here are the most common.

Why You May Need a Dental Bone Graft

1. Save Your Teeth

In cases of advanced gum disease, bone loss can loosen and weaken teeth. Without proper treatment, the chances of losing teeth increase as the jawbone deteriorates. A bone graft helps save them by encouraging new bone growth and strengthening your jaw. 

2. Prevent Bone Loss Following Extraction

If you have to get a tooth removed, your oral surgeon may recommend a bone graft as a preventive measure—often immediately following the extraction for your convenience. Bone loss may accelerate when a tooth is gone, so counteracting it will make tooth replacement options much more viable.

3. Prepare for Dental Implants

Many people don’t know exactly how dental implants work in relation to the jaw. A steel rod must be installed where it can fuse with the jawbone to provide firm support for an artificial tooth. After this anchor has fused, it will be ready for a crown to be attached.

If your jawbone isn’t strong enough to support the anchor for an implant, a dentist won’t risk installing the rod, making an implant impossible. Once a bone graft has been implemented, new growth has occurred, and several weeks of healing have elapsed, your jaw will ready to support an implant and restore your smile. 

If you’re looking to get dental implants or are looking for guidance with restorative dentistry, contact the experts at S. Jill Spurlin, DMD. The highly trained staff will help you take charge of oral health with teeth whitening, crowns and bridges, and everything in between. Visit them online or call the Enterprise, AL, office at (334) 475-2624 to learn more about their practice.