Are You a Candidate For Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that involves rebuilding or repairing a damaged bone. Since bones can heal by fusing themselves over time, bone grafting is a highly beneficial process. There are different types of bone grafting techniques used by surgeons, and choosing the type depends on where the grafting is being done. 

In the dental world, bone grafts are primarily used to address the issue of dental implants. If patients wish to opt for dental implants but do not have sufficient jaw space and sound quality of the jaw bone to hold the implant, a surgeon may perform a bone graft for them.

Encino bone grafting experts offer various procedures, including autogenous bone grafts, xenogenic bone grafts, synthetic bone grafts, and ridge expansion grafts. Some bone grafting techniques include particulate grafts, sinus lifts, block grafts, and the use of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs).

Is bone grafting a cosmetic surgery?

While bone grafting is categorized as cosmetic surgery, its goals are not necessarily only for the sake of aesthetics. Often, bone grafting is performed for restoring functional processes which can be impaired due to different medical reasons.

What is the eligibility for getting bone grafts?

You may be a candidate for a bone graft if you fulfill the following criteria:

1. If you are suffering from any conditions that decrease jawbone density (such as osteoporosis), bone grafting may be a viable option.
2. If you have missing or loose teeth, the jawbone does not receive proper nutrients and blood supply and gradually breaks down. Bone grafting is helpful in such a situation to restore the quality of the jawbone.
3. If you have suffered any dental trauma such as knocked-off or broken teeth due to accidents or even assault, these can be replaced with a graft.
4. If you have a tumor or a cyst, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to replace removed teeth after its removal. Bone grafting is a helpful procedure in this case. 
5. If you are suffering from any gum disease, bone grafting is a helpful procedure. When periodontitis worsens to the extent that it can erode the jaw, the process of bone grafting can ensure the restoration of the jawbone to some extent. Gum diseases are also the most common cause of loose teeth. Bone grafting can help prevent multiple dental concerns.
6. In case of any developmental defects, including congenital conditions such as having a naturally large sinus cavity or thin jawbone, bone grafting can be helpful to stimulate the growth of new bone.