Bone Grafting for Dental Implants
Inadequate bone in the jaw?
If you’ve had multiple missing teeth for some time and are considering dental implants, you might have been told that to make the treatment a success you’re going to need a bone graft.
As your local London implant experts, we’ve treated hundreds of implant cases and performed countless second opinions where we’ve discovered that bone grafts might not be necessary.
But until we take an in-depth examination of your jawbone and oral condition as well as hearing your concerns and goals, we will be unable to show you exactly what is possible with implant dentistry.
Book a consultation today to find out. Call 020 8103 8541.
How to know if you need a bone graft
There are various reasons why you might not have enough bone to hold an implant securely, and you might be advised that you need one if:
- Your teeth are loose, wobbly, or unstable
- If you suffer from gum disease it can break down bone tissue
- You have had a tooth extraction some time ago, which has affected the teeth on either side leading to bone deterioration
- You experience lots of infections in your mouth which can cause bone loss
- You have had an injury to your mouth, or an impact has led to bone loss
Don’t fear bone grafts
Bone grafts are often required for patients with severe tooth loss because they may have an inadequate amount of bone available to support an implant.
We understand that bone grafts might sound daunting, but they are a standard procedure that is carried out reasonably quickly.
Implants require enough bone to hold it securely in place to be successful; when there isn’t enough bone available, a bone graft ensures a solid base for the implant.
Bone grafts in detail
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that is used to replace the bone that surrounds the root of a tooth, making it possible for patients who do not have enough natural bone in the jaw to have an implant.
The material for the bone can be taken from another part of your jaw, or from elsewhere in your body. Synthetic materials are also available.
Whilst bone does not grow back on its own, it can regenerate under the right conditions – and a graft makes this possible, whilst helping to keep your implant and existing teeth in place.
Over time, patients can expect their own bone to grow and naturally replace the graft material.
After a period of healing, where the site around the graft can heal safely, you’ll be ready to have your implant placed.
What is a bone graft procedure like?
Bone grafts are often carried out in our London local practice under local anaesthetic.
For those who experience dental anxiety, we can provide sedation and dental relaxing techniques.
The procedure itself will see the dental surgeon lifting the gum tissue from the area, placing the graft and securing it.
Your gum will be stitched back over the graft, taking no more than an hour and a half to complete.
The surgery may not sound particularly pleasant, but it is a straightforward common procedure that often goes together with other implant treatments.
Bone graft approaches
Bone graft methods
- Onlay bone graft: For teeth that have been missing for some time. The graft is applied on top of the existing bone. The patient then is given time to heal, allowing the bone to grow into the graft before implant placement.
- Block bone graft: Small blocks of bone are positioned into an area that needs to be strengthened and secured with bone screws. Once healed, the screws are removed, and implants are ready to be implanted.
- Particulate bone graft: The technique uses tiny spongy particles and compact bone matter that swiftly integrates with existing bone – this is much faster than other bone grafting methods.
Bone graft aftercare
How to care for a bone graft
Following surgery, we will give you clear guidance on what you will need to do to take care of your bone graft and allow it to heal safely.
The success rates for bone grafts are considerably high, with these procedures only being carried out by highly trained and experienced implant dentists and surgeons.
As with any surgical procedure, you can expect some slight discomfort following the bone graft surgery, but patients should expect similar pain levels to a tooth extraction, which can be easily managed with over-the-counter painkillers.
How much is a dental bone graft?
The price of bone graft will depend on the type, method, and size as well as your individual needs.
Before progressing with implant treatment, one of our dentists will do a thorough clinical assessment to determine the specific treatments required and the type of bone graft.
From here, they will walk you through the exact costs and answer any questions you might have.
All of our implant dentists have undergone further postgraduate training, have a wealth of experience and are fully qualified to offer various kinds of implant treatments.
If you are interested in implants and would like to know more, or speak to our London practice about bone grafts, call our Pinner implant practice on 020 8103 8541 – we’re here to help.
Types of Bone Grafts
There are various types of bone grafts which include:
Socket preservation
Sometimes patients may require a tooth to be extracted before having an implant placed. In this case, an implant dentist or surgeon will fill the empty socket with grafting material to prevent the jawbone within that area from losing any of its thickness.
Typically, what happens when socket preservation isn’t performed, is the bone degenerates within weeks of the extraction, which affects a patient’s appearance and hurts their chances of later procedures down the line.
Guided bone regeneration
Guided bone regeneration is a technique used to encourage new bone growth. A space is made between the gum and the jawbone, and the collagen membrane is moved along the gum to guarantee that tissue does not regrow in the space.
Tiny particulars of bone-grafting materials are placed within this space to encourage the formation of new bone – the collagen and membranes, which are natural materials will disappear after three months as the body absorbs them.
Block bone graft
Ridge preservation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bone graft?
A bone graft is a surgical procedure in which bone or bone-like material is transplanted to a specific area of the body, typically to aid in the healing and regeneration of bone. In dentistry, bone grafts are commonly used to create a stable foundation for dental implants or to preserve the jawbone after tooth extraction.
Why would I need a bone graft?
There are several reasons why a person may need a bone graft. One common reason is to support the placement of dental implants. Dental implants require a sufficient amount of healthy bone to successfully integrate and provide stability. If you have experienced bone loss due to factors like gum disease, trauma, or tooth extraction, a bone graft may be needed to rebuild the bone structure before implant placement.
What types of bone graft materials are used?
There are various types of bone graft materials that can be used during the procedure. Autografts involve using your own bone, usually taken from another area of your body, such as the hip or chin. Allografts use bone from a donor, typically from a bone bank. Synthetic or bone-like materials can also be used. Your dentist will determine the most appropriate type of bone graft material for your specific case.
Is a bone graft a painful procedure?
During the bone graft procedure, you will be placed under local or general anaesthesia to minimise discomfort. After the surgery, it is common to experience some minor swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the area. Your dentist will provide you with appropriate pain medication to manage any post-operative pain. Most patients find the pain to be manageable and resolve within a few days.
How long does it take for a bone graft to heal?
The healing time for a bone graft can vary depending on factors such as the size and location of the graft, the health of the patient, and the type of graft material used. In general, it takes several months for the graft to fully integrate with the existing bone. During this period, it is essential to follow your dentist’s instructions, maintain good oral hygiene, and avoid activities that may disrupt the healing process.
Are there any risks or complications associated with bone grafts?
Like any surgical procedure, bone grafts do carry some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or graft failure. However, with proper pre-operative evaluation, careful surgical technique, and post-operative care, the risks are usually minimal. It is essential to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your dentist before undergoing a bone graft.
Can everyone get a bone graft?
In general, most individuals are candidates for bone grafts. However, certain medical conditions or habits, such as smoking or uncontrolled diabetes, may affect the success of the procedure. Your dentist will evaluate your specific situation and medical history to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a bone graft.
How long after a bone graft can I get dental implants?
The timing for placing dental implants following a bone graft can vary. In some cases, implants can be placed simultaneously with the graft, while in others, a healing period of several months is necessary to ensure proper integration. Your dentist will determine the most appropriate time frame for dental implant placement based on your individual healing progress and oral health.