Bone grafting is sometimes required for a variety of problems, including defects in the jaw from injury, infection or removal of tumors. Such defects can successfully be reconstructed by bone grafting procedures.

Missing Bone from Extraction of Teeth

Over a period of time, 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 add 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 esthetic appearance. The bone graft procedures are referred to as:

Sinus lift procedure

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

Ridge-augmentation

In severe cases the ridge of bone that used to contain the teeth has been reabsorbed and a bone graft is placed to increase the ridge height and/or width.

These procedures and others may be performed separately or together, depending upon the individual's condition. There are several areas of the body which are suitable for attaining bone grafts. In the maxillofacial region, bone grafts can be taken from inside the mouth, in the area of the chin or third molar region or in the upper jaw behind the last tooth. In more extensive situations, a greater quantity of bone can be attained from the hip or the outer aspect of the tibia at the knee.

Most of these surgeries are performed in the our office surgical suite under I.V. sedation or general anesthesia.