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Bone Grafting

Over a period of time, the part of the jaw bone associated with missing teeth atrophies or is reabsorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, most patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants.

We now have the ability to grow bone where needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and aesthetic appearance. The best time to do a bone graft is at the time of the removal of teeth. However, if the bone graft is not done at this time, the following bone graft procedures are available. These bone graft procedures are referred to as Sinus Lift Grafts and Ridge Expansions.

Sinus Lift Graft

This procedure involves elevating the sinus membrane and placing the bone graft onto the sinus floor, allowing implants to be placed in the back part of the upper jaw. After several months of healing, the bone becomes part of the patient’s jaw and dental implants can be inserted and stabilized in this new sinus bone. The sinus lift graft makes it possible for many patients to have dental implants when years ago there was no other option other than wearing loose dentures.

Ridge Expansion

In severe cases the ridge has been reabsorbed and a bone graft is placed to increase the ridge height and/or width. This is a technique used to restore the lost bone dimension when the jaw ridge gets too thin to place conventional implants. In this procedure, the bony ridge of the jaw is literally expanded by mechanical means. Bone graft material can be placed and matured for a few months before placing the implant.

These procedures may be performed separately or together, depending upon the individual's condition. These surgeries are performed in our office surgical suite under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. After discharge, bed rest is recommended for one day and limited physical activity for one week.