Osseous Grafts or “Bone Grafts”

Bone loss in the jaw and around teeth can result from missing teeth, periodontal disease, or trauma. Beyond compromising oral health and function, bone loss can alter facial appearance by diminishing the support for natural facial contours.

When a tooth is extracted, the natural stimulation of the underlying bone from chewing forces is lost. Within the first year after tooth loss, bone width can decrease by as much as 25%. Bone grafting procedures restore bone dimensions, maintain facial aesthetics, repair damage from periodontal disease, and support procedures like dental implants.

Types of Grafting Procedures:

• Immediate Bone Graft: Performed at the time of tooth extraction to minimize bone loss and prepare for future dental implants.
• Delayed Bone Graft: Performed after tooth loss, requiring a separate surgical procedure to place the graft material.
• Sinus Lift: Adds bone graft material between the jaw and the sinus floor to provide sufficient bone height for implants in the upper back jaw.
• Aesthetic Ridge Augmentation: Restores the natural contours of the bone for a more pleasing appearance, especially when preparing for fixed bridgework.

Bone graft materials can come from the patient, other donor sources, or synthetic materials that mimic natural bone. These grafts act as scaffolding for new bone growth, restoring the area to its original dimensions.

To protect the graft, promote healing, and guide tissue regeneration, special membranes and biologically active materials are often placed over the grafting material.

Bone grafting procedures are essential for maintaining oral health, supporting dental restorations, and achieving optimal cosmetic and functional outcomes.