Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that entails transplanting bone tissue. In dentistry, it is becoming an increasingly prevalent solution for a range of oral problems that patients suffer from. Dental professionals are continually adopting and refining advanced dental bone grafting techniques to address sometimes intricate issues that could not be treated without working on their patients' bones. Indeed, today dental bone grafting is specifically associated with the rectification of three common dental problems that stem from bone loss or insufficient bone density. Read on to find out more about the most common reasons you might be offered dental bone grafting as a treatment pathway.
1. Tooth Loss and Dental Implants
To begin with, one of the most evident impacts of tooth loss is the subsequent deterioration of the jawbone that tends to occur, especially when multiple teeth are lost. When a tooth is absent, the jawbone loses the stimulation it needs to maintain its density. Over time, the bone loss some patients face can become so significant that there might not be adequate bone to support dental implants. Of course, implants are one of the preferred long-term solutions for tooth replacement dentists have at their disposal. However, implants require a certain degree of bone volume to be available to ensure their stability. In cases where the jawbone simply isn't strong enough to accommodate an implant, dental bone grafting can augment the volume of the jaw, creating a robust foundation for the implant. In other words, by enhancing the bone's density and volume, bone grafting ensures the success and longevity of dental implants.
2. Periodontal Disease
Chronic periodontal disease, sometimes referred to as gum disease, can lead to the deterioration of the bone that supports the teeth. As the disease progresses, pockets form around the tooth roots, leading to bone loss. If left unchecked, this can result in tooth mobility and eventual tooth loss. In cases of severe periodontal disease, dental bone grafting can be recommended to restore the lost bone and provide better support to the existing teeth. The procedure not only prevents further tooth loss but also prepares the site for further treatments down the line, should the need for implants or other restorations arise.
3. Ridge Deformities
Trauma, cysts, infections, or tooth extractions can all lead to indentations in the gums and jawbone. These deformities, often called ridge deformities, can complicate dental restorative procedures, impact facial aesthetics, and even affect speech or eating in the worst cases. Dental bone grafting is able to treat these deformities, restoring the natural contour of the gums and jaw. This not only improves the aesthetics but also ensures that the mouth is prepared for future dental procedures, like bridges or implants.
Contact a local dentist to learn more about dental bone grafting.
