When you go for a major dental procedure, your dentist will examine your jaw to ensure it’s perfect for the procedure. If your jawbone doesn’t have enough density and mass, your dentist will advise you to go for a bone graft. Why do some dental procedures need bone grafting?
What is a Dental Bone Graft?
A dental bone graft refers to the bone tissue implanted into your jawbone to add bone mass and density. This bone tissue may be harvested from a human or animal donor or manufactured in a lab. A bone graft obtained from another part of your body is an autogenous graft, while a graft obtained from a human donor is known as an allograft. A bone graft obtained from an animal donor is known as a xenograft.
Why Do You Need a Dental Bone Graft?
Many situations warrant a dental bone graft. Here are the main reasons why a dental bone graft may be necessary.
Fitting Dental Implants
Your dentist may advise you to have a bone graft before getting the implant. This bone graft is meant to provide a strong base for your implants. According to studies, almost 50 percent of patients require bone grafting for dental implants. Without enough base, they will become loose and fall off.
Severe Gum Disease
If you’ve lost your teeth due to severe gum disease, your doctor may recommend bone grafting before getting dental implants, significantly if the disease has affected your jawbone. In this case, your doctor may have to surgically remove the affected portions of your jawbone and restore the lost bone mass through grafting.
Bone Loss
If you take long to replace your missing teeth, your jawbone will lack the necessary stimulation to regenerate itself. Consequently, it will shrink. This condition is prevalent in elderly people who have stayed for a long time with missing teeth. In such a situation, a bone graft is necessary.