Bone graft surgery is a minor procedure done by dentists to prevent bone loss in your jaw. The process begins with an incision in the gum to expose the bone below. From there, the dentist adds a grafting material, which could come from your body, a sterilized human donation, or a synthetic material.  Here are some of the circumstances that often lead to bone grafts at a dental office.

Why Do Dentists Recommend Bone Grafts?

1. To Save Teeth

Gum disease or periodontal disease can weaken the bones within the jaw if left untreated for a long time. With a weak jawbone, teeth sometimes loosen. Bone grafting is used to give the loosened teeth a strong foundation so that they don’t fall out. It acts as a support for the teeth while the patient receives treatment for their periodontal disease.

2. To Prevent Bone Loss From an Extraction

If a patient loses a tooth from an accident or an extraction, bone grafting will likely be necessary. Without a tooth to support, the jawbone will deteriorate over time.

After a while, it will become painful for them to receive a dental implant for a new tooth. With grafting, the affected area in the jawbone will be restored, and the patient will have more options when deciding how to replace the missing tooth.

3. To Prepare for a Dental Implant

Bone grafts are often done in preparation for a dental implant, which is a procedure to attach artificial teeth to the gums. For a dental implant to work, the bone structure within the jaw must be strong enough to support the framework that will be inserted into the gum.

The grafting will replace the missing or weakened bone, and once the structure is restored, the patient can continue with the rest of the implant procedure. 

 

If you think you may need dental bone grafting, put your oral health in the hands of a dentist you can trust. Larry G. Hubbard, DDS, and his staff have proudly served residents throughout Statesboro, GA. At his comfortable and friendly clinic, he and his team perform a variety of dental services, including check-ups, tooth extraction, crowns, and cosmetic procedures to help your smile shine bright. Call (912) 764-9891 today to schedule your appointment or visit their website to learn more about their services.