When it comes to tooth replacement, no other option compares to dental implants. If you have done any kind of research, you have likely found out about the long-term benefits of this treatment. But you may not have encountered much information about bone grafts, which often play a critical role in the success of dental implants. In this post, you will learn more about why a bone graft in Lincoln is sometimes necessary, leading causes for needing a bone graft, and how to tell that you may be a candidate.
Why Would You Need a Bone Graft?
One thing that all patients who need a bone graft have in common is that they do not have enough jaw bone density to properly support implants. Without this procedure, which is performed prior to implant placement, the implant would not be stable enough to withstand the biting force it would be subjected to. As a result of bone deficiency, bone grafts give patients who have suffered tooth loss another chance to qualify for a strong, durable, natural-looking smile.
What Causes Bone Deficiency?
As one of the most common reasons for tooth loss, gum disease is also one of the main culprits responsible for bone density loss in the jaw. The inflammatory bacteria not only separate gum tissue from teeth but also degrade bone support under the surface, which makes teeth more unstable. After addressing gum disease, your dentist in Lincoln can then use a bone graft to recover what has been lost from the infection.
If you have not had gum disease, but you are missing a tooth or two, you may have bone deficiency. From the moment a tooth root is removed from the jaw bone, the bone tissue begins to be resorbed. Even if you are getting a dental implant within a few months of losing a tooth, you may have already sustained enough bone loss to require a graft.
Other causes include the following:
- Trauma or injury to the face
- Osteoarthritis
- Genetic defect
How Can You Know If You Need a Bone Graft?
If you have experienced any of the common causes, chances are that you will need a bone graft. However, there are those who have sufficient bone density to support implants on their own. The only way to know for sure is to meet with your dentist for an evaluation. During this appointment, they can examine your mouth and take X-rays or a 3D cone beam image to determine whether a bone graft is necessary.
As intimidating as a bone graft can seem at first glance, it enables more patients to regain their confidence through dental implants. If you need to have this procedure, it just means that your dentist wants to ensure a successful implant simply by adding this one step. Your smile is worth it!
About Pioneer Greens Dentistry
Pioneer Greens Dentistry is proud to have three skilled dentists with a combined total of several decades of experience. Unlike many other practices, which need to refer patients to a specialist for a bone graft, we can handle this procedure in-house. We utilize the most advanced technology like a 3D cone beam scanner to meticulously plan implant procedures and avoid complications. Would you like to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists? Contact Pioneer Greens Dentistry today!