For a dental implant to work effectively, we need a solid foundation of bone. The best way to achieve this is often with a bone graft. During the procedure, grafting material is placed in the socket after tooth extraction to regenerate bone tissue. Bone grafts have proven to be very successful in providing enough bone for implant support.

What is Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is typically the first step in the implant process. Missing teeth can cause your jawbone to atrophy or resorb over time. This often results in poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for the placement of dental implants, as well as long-term shifting of remaining teeth and changes to facial structure. Most patients in these situations are not candidates for dental implants.

Fortunately, today, we have the ability to grow bone where it is needed. This not only allows us to place implants of proper length and width but also restores functionality and aesthetic appearance.

Major & Minor Bone Grafting Procedures

Minor Bone Grafting

Bone grafting can repair implant sites with inadequate bone structure due to previous extractions, gum disease, or injuries. The bone is obtained from a tissue bank or can be taken from your own body, generally the jaw, hip, or tibia (below the knee). Sinus bone grafts are also performed to replace bone in the posterior upper jaw.

Guided Bone Regeneration

In addition, special membranes that dissolve under the gum may be utilized to protect the bone graft and encourage bone regeneration. This is called guided bone regeneration or guided tissue regeneration.

Major Bone Grafting

Major bone grafts are typically performed to repair jaw defects that may arise from traumatic injuries, tumor surgery, or congenital disabilities. Large defects are repaired using the patient’s own bone. This bone is harvested from many different areas depending on the size needed. The skull (cranium), hip (iliac crest), and lateral knee (tibia) are common donor sites. These procedures are routinely performed in an operating room and require a hospital stay.

Improve the Success Rate of Your Implants with Bone Grafting in Phoenix, AZ

Our experienced team at Butura Oral and Dental Implant Surgery is here to provide you with the highest level of care and ensure your comfort throughout the process. Call us with any questions or to make an appointment for bone grafting!

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