A block bone graft in San Carlos can make you a good candidate for dental implants after bone loss

Most people have heard the term dental implants used, even if you aren’t quite sure what they are. On the other hand, the bone graft is a term that isn’t as well known, even though it goes hand in hand with dental implants. At Peninsula Dental Implant Center in San Carlos, bone grafts are one of the many restorative procedures we provide for patients impacted by tooth loss.

What are bone grafts?

Bone grafting is done when a patient does not have enough healthy bone structure in the mouth to properly support a dental implant. This bone deficiency can occur for many reasons including:

• Gum disease
• Trauma/Injury
• Genetic/development defects
• After tooth extraction

Who needs a bone graft?

Bone loss begins occurring after a tooth is lost. There is no formula for how much bone loss occurs each day, therefore, all patients are evaluated for bone resorption prior to receiving dental implants.

Why do missing teeth cause bone loss?

The alveolar bone has one role – to support the teeth and hold them in place. Once a tooth is gone, the alveolar bone will begin to atrophy due to the lack of stimulation.

Furthermore, the jawbone retains strength through activities such as chewing. Loss of alveolar bone can also extend to jawbone loss.

Why do bone grafts help dental implants?

The success of dental implants relies on its ability to fuse with the bone to create the stability and support necessary for a crown. If there is not enough bone to support the implant, the procedure becomes impossible.

What are the different types of bone grafts?

There are three main types: socket, lateral ridge preservation, and block bone graft depending on the need. Socket grafts are done to prevent further bone resorption. Donor’s bone is placed into the socket to prevent its collapse. Patients are typically ready for implants in about four to six months. Block bone grafts are done with pieces of the patient’s own bone and are necessary when there is extensive bone loss.

For more information on grafts, call us at (650) 232-7650 today.

Share this Article