For many, even the term “bone grafting” can be scary. Our team understands that and is prepared to answer all of your questions and make sure you feel comfortable with the procedure prior to the day of your appointment. There are many instances where bone grafting may be necessary, whether you are missing a tooth, have a broken, chipped, or cracked tooth, or have endured some type of oral trauma that has impacted your teeth and jaw. In most cases, a bone graft is recommended where bone is lacking or shallow. During the surgical procedure of bone grafting, parts of bone in the patient’s mouth will be replaced or added to. This is done in order to encourage new bone growth, which will then strengthen the area by forming a bridge between the original bone and the newly grafted material.

In the world of dentistry, bone grafts are typically used to restore and regenerate bone before a bridge or other dental implant is inserted. Thanks to advances in technology, today we have the ability to grow bone where it is needed. This not only allows us to have proper structure and support for implants but can help prevent more complications down the road, such as gum disease. Dr. Anup Naik and his entire Las Colinas dental team are committed to ensuring each and every patient who walks through our doors has a good understanding of the various dental services available to them, such as bone grafting. We understand that a visit to the dentist can be daunting, but it is our intention to change the attitude people have about dental procedures through education and awareness.

WHEN IS A BONE GRAFT NEEDED?

In order for a dental implant to be successful, it is absolutely imperative that a foundation of adequate bone is in place. In fact, when Dr. Naik is examining you and looking at the possibility of bone graft surgery, one of the first things he will do is take the following criterion into consideration:

  • Is the existing bone dense and thick enough to support an implant?
  • Is the bone deep enough?
  • Is the bone wide enough?

If the answer to any of these questions is no, a bone graft may be necessary. By changing and adapting part of the jaw using natural bone from your own body (typically the hip or jaw), Dr. Naik will be able to build a strong foundation at the implant site. When the bone graft has been completed and healed, it will be more suitable for the implant.

There are several different types of bone grafts that you should be aware of:

  • Little bone graft
  • Medium bone graft
  • Big bone graft

Each one has a different purpose and is used in certain instances. For example, if you have lost a single tooth, a little bone graft may be all that is needed in order to ensure you do not lose excess bone height or width. To learn more about the various types of bone grafts and when this type of oral surgery may be required, please do not hesitate to contact our dental clinic.

Your oral health is of the utmost importance to us, which is just one of the reasons why we feature HD TVs throughout our clinic that display educational material. Dr. Naik himself is a perfectionist and a well-respected figure within the dental community, something that can be seen through his unwavering commitment to patient satisfaction. If you are in need of a bone graft or other type of oral surgery, there is no better choice than Cosmetic and Family Dentistry of Las Colinas. Please do not hesitate to contact us today with any questions or to schedule an appointment.