When teeth are extracted or lost, the jawbone begins to shrink. This bone loss occurs because the roots of the teeth stimulate the bone to grow around them. Without roots, the bone no longer receives this stimulation and begins to break down. Over time, this can lead to facial collapse and other oral health problems.
Bone grafting can help restore lost bone mass in your jaw. This procedure involves taking a piece of bone from elsewhere in the body or a donor source and placing it into the jawbone. Once the graft is in place, it stimulates the growth of new bone and tissue.
At Brandon H. Barton Jr., D.D.S., P.C., we often perform bone grafting before dental implant placement to restore lost bone tissue in the jaw. Dental implants require sufficient bone structure to be successful. If insufficient bone is available to support the implant, the surgery will not be effective. Bone grafting can help rebuild your jaw's bone structure so dental implants can be placed successfully.
The Procedure for Bone Grafting
Before beginning your procedure, our dentist in Detroit, MI, will numb the area with a local anesthetic. Then, they will create a small incision in your gums to expose the bone. They will then place the graft material into the area. Once the graft is in place, the dentist will close the incision with stitches.
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort and swelling. These symptoms should subside within a few days. Be sure to follow all aftercare instructions provided by our dentist to ensure a successful recovery.
The Benefits of Bone Grafting
Prevents Bone Loss
When a tooth is lost, the bone in the jaw begins to deteriorate. This is because the body no longer senses the need to support the tooth. Over time, this can cause the jawbone to recede to the point where it can no longer support an implant. A bone graft can prevent this from occurring.
Improves Oral Health
Bone grafting in Detroit, MI, not only preserves existing bone but also helps promote the growth of new bone. This helps strengthen the jaw and improve overall dental health.
Reduces Pain
Bone grafting can help relieve pain caused by tooth loss. This is because the graft helps to stabilize the jaw and prevent it from shifting. It can also improve chewing ability and reduce discomfort associated with missing teeth.
Increases Self-Confidence
Missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. Bone grafting can help you feel more confident about your smile by restoring your natural look.
If you are considering dental implants, visit Brandon H. Barton Jr., D.D.S., P.C., at 11200 E McNichols Rd., Detroit, MI 48234, or call (313) 521-6400 to talk to our dentist about bone grafting. This procedure can help ensure that your implants have a solid foundation and can last a lifetime.
