Bone Grafting
With constant developments in technology, there are always new methods being created to help dentists provide the best in oral care. Bone grafting procedures have grown increasingly popular and are sometimes preferred over other common methods, depending on the patient and their case.
Different Types
Restorative procedures such as dental implant surgery, used to replace a missing tooth or teeth, require a strong jaw or sufficient bone to place the implant. For patients who do not have sufficient bone or have health issues that may make the bone weak, a bone graft may be an adequate solution. The bone graft helps by providing a strong base for the implant to take root.
There are multiple types of bone grafts:
- Autograft: Uses bone that has been taken from the patient
- Xenograft: Uses bone that is genetically dissimilar
- Allograft: Uses bone that is genetically similar
- Synthetic: Uses a synthetic material with similar characteristics to bone
While it may appear there are multiple options, your dentist will determine the best option for you and your personal health needs.
Timing
In some situations, a dentist will apply the bone graft procedure first, and the implant procedure at a later date. Other times your dentist will schedule them simultaneously during the same appointment. While it can be more convenient to group them together, this is a decision made by the dentist, based on a number of factors.
If you have the bone graft and implant scheduled to take place during different times, it is important to take care of the area, by following your dentist’s instructions carefully. This will help promote a quick and healthy recovery, finally allowing you to regain that beautiful smile.
If you have any questions on bone grafting procedures, contact our Lethbridge dental clinic for more information on the different procedures that involve bone grafting.