A dental bone graft is a surgical procedure in which bone tissue—or composite material—is strategically inserted into the jawbone. Over a period of time, new bone growth will develop, strengthening the jaw and absorbing the grafted material. Dentists use this procedure for a few important purposes. Here’s a closer look at the most common.

3 Purposes of a Dental Bone Graft

1. To Support Dental Implants

Dental implants are among the most natural restorations available, as they look and function just like natural teeth. They feature a titanium rod that’s inserted into the jawbone. Once the rod fuses to the bone and heals, a post and crown are affixed.

However, there must be adequate jawbone to anchor the rod. If the jaw has receded, a graft can be performed to generate bone tissue so that the area is strong enough to support the implant.

2. To Restore Bone Loss

The jawbone can recede for a number of reasons, including tooth loss, age, and trauma caused by prolonged teeth grinding. Periodontal disease can also lead to bone loss, as the bacteria that cause the infection can spread into the jawbone. For this reason, periodontal disease may also directly contribute to tooth loss.

3. To Prepare for Dentures

Though sufficient bone structure isn’t as crucial to dentures as it is with implants, there’s still a risk. Without a strong foundation beneath the gums, dentures may not stay in place properly. As a result, they may slip during eating and speaking, which can become uncomfortable and cause sores over time. Fortunately, bone grafting can help restore the jaw and provide a more stable support system for prosthetics.

If you have any of the dental concerns above, allow Judy Walker, DDS to help. Serving Guilford County, NC, this dentist has more than 25 years of experience and offers a broad range of cosmetic, restorative, and preventive dental treatments to meet each patient’s unique needs. Explore some of her office’s available restorations by visiting the website or call (336) 275-1472 to schedule an appointment.