If you have been missing teeth for some time, sustained an injury affecting the jaw bone, or have a congenital condition resulting in less bone volume, bone grafting may be necessary before receiving dental implants. Tooth loss has a major effect on the supportive structures of the mouth, including the bone. Without teeth, the jaw bone will resorb and shrink, becoming increasingly thin and weak. For patients with severe bone loss, this can attribute to an aged look and a “sunken-in” appearance as tooth and bone loss also result in a loss of the support system that fills out the cheeks and lips. Bone grafting in Cambridge and Easton, MD, restores the necessary bone levels in the jaw so that patients can enjoy a wider selection of options for their missing teeth that can restore their smile to youthful beauty.
Just as dental implants are a big focus in our office, so is bone grafting as a critical step in the restorative process. We are extensively trained in bone grafting procedures and understand the components that go into successful treatment planning and execution. When completed by our experienced dentists, bone grafting is safe and predictable, building a strong and stable foundation for the long-term success of dental implants.
Bone grafting treatment begins with a cone beam CT scan, which allows us to examine the remaining bone and its volume in 3D to aid us in treatment planning and surgery. During the procedure, we take bone grafting material from your body or a donor source and place it at the treatment site. To help the graft remain in place during healing, a collagen membrane is placed over the area and the gums sutured back in place. While the area heals, the bone material will integrate with the existing bone, creating a strong ridge that can safely accommodate dental implants. While bone grafting procedures are safe, they are a surgical treatment and a small amount of bleeding and swelling in the first few days is normal. We will provide detailed instructions after your procedure and any follow-up care needed to ensure a healthy and safe recovery.
Cambridge Office:
17 Franklin Street Cambridge, MD 21613
Easton Office:
29276 Erickson Drive Easton, MD 21601