Types of Bone Grafts for Dental Implants

The loss of a tooth is often accompanied by the loss of underlying bone tissue. This may be because the dentist who removed the failing tooth has no choice but to remove some of the surrounding bone, as well. More commonly, tooth loss occurs because the missing tooth is not promptly replaced. Without the stimulation of the tooth root, your jawbone will naturally begin to atrophy.

The loss of this bone tissue not only creates unwanted changes to your facial appearance but can also complicate dental restoration. Through bone grafting, bone loss and tooth replacement issues can be promptly addressed by an experienced oral surgeon.

What is a Bone Graft?

Bone grafting involves bone tissue being harvested from elsewhere on your body, or sometimes from a donor “bone bank,” and grafted onto the jaw. The transplanted bone stimulates further bone growth, allowing you to regenerate bone tissue where you need it the most.

There are a number of specific types of bone grafting, and each one addresses different patient needs. During your surgical consultation, your doctor will let you know more about the type of bone graft that is right for you.

What are the Different Types of Bone Graft?

The different types of bone graft include:

Ridge Augmentation

This type of bone graft is typically performed for patients who have had a tooth extracted, and who need the natural contour of their gums and their jaw restored following the removal of a tooth.

Sinus Lift

When you have an upper tooth extracted, it can sometimes cause the sinuses to sag. This can lead to a number of complications and make dental restoration more challenging. Bone grafting can be used to lift and fortify the sinuses, and enable the placement of an upper dental implant.

Socket Preservation

The removal of a tooth can leave the tooth socket in poor condition. If the socket is badly degraded, it can cause the implants to be unstable. Socket preservation may be needed to ensure the long-term success of the implant.

Bone Grafting for Jaw Health

If you are ineligible for dental restoration or your facial structure has changed, bone grafting can help restore bone tissue and improve jaw health.

Learn More About Bone Grafting

At The OMS Center of South Louisiana, we value patient education and are always pleased to discuss different bone graft treatment options with you. To schedule a bone grafting consultation, contact our practice today.