Bone Graft

Bone Graft Dental Implant

If you have missing teeth, the benefits of dental implants are nearly unmatched. Unfortunately, in some cases where the jaw bone has deteriorated, a bone graft will be needed before the dental implant can be placed.

Bone graft dental implants aren’t much different from regular dental implant procedures. However, they can have a longer treatment period.

At A Shop for Smiles, we are able to place dental implants to help replace missing teeth or to support implant-supported dentures. We are also able to perform bone grafts to help the dental implants bond to the jaw bone.

Bone Graft Dental Implant Procedure

Without a tooth to stimulate the jaw bone, it can begin to deteriorate. If you have been missing teeth for some time, a bone graft may be needed to restore strength to the jaw bone.

The bone grafting process begins with your doctor removing a section of bone from another area of your body and grafting it onto your jaw bone. It will take several months for the grafted bone to create new, strong bone that will hold the implant in position.

It is possible, however, to have your bone graft performed at the same time as your dental implant surgery, if the need for a graft is fairly minor. Your doctor will evaluate whether or not this is a possibility for you.

Dental Implant Surgery

Once the bone graft is complete and has had time to heal, dental implants can be placed. The dental implant process can actually involve two separate appointments: one to place the implant and install the abutment, and a second to attach a dental crown atop the implant.

First, we will place the implant, which is a titanium alloy rod. Next, the abutment is attached. In some cases, the abutment will be placed at a later date with the dental crown. Once the implant has properly bonded to the jaw bone, a process called osseointegration, the dental crown can be placed and bonded to the abutment.

Dental implants can also be used with dentures to provide a more secure fit. Instead of placing dental crowns atop the abutments, a ball and socket is used to attach dentures to the implants.

Visit the Best Dentist in La Mesa, California Today!

If you are missing a tooth and require a dental implant or a bone graft dental implant, we can help. Call to schedule an appointment.