Over a period of time, the jaw bone associated with missing teeth atrophies or is resorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and/or quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. Previously In these situations, most patients were not candidates for placement of dental implants.

We now have the ability to add bone where needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implant of proper length and width, it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and esthetic appearance. One example of a bone augmentation procedure involves placing the bone graft into the sinus cavity, allowing implants to be placed in the back part of the upper jaw. In other cases bone graft can be added to the jaw bone to increase the ridge height and/or width.

In addition to synthetic bone, there are several areas of the body which are suitable for attaining bone grafts. In the maxillofacial region, bone grafts can be taken from inside the mouth, in the area of the chin or third molar region or in the upper jaw behind the last tooth. These surgeries are performed in our office surgical suite under I.V. sedation or general anesthesia In more extensive situations, a greater quantity of bone can be attained from the hip in an operating room setting.

Often times grafting can be used when a tooth is removed. This can dramatically help the healing of the socket and prevent bone shrinkage which normall occurs during healing.