Grafting Procedures

Bone Graft

During implant reconstruction, bone grafting becomes necessary if your upper or lower jawbones do not have enough volume to support the titanium posts. This usually results from periodontal disease, injuries, cysts, infections, or an extracted tooth. Bone grafting restores your previous bone structure by actually growing bone or replacing it with a synthetic material.

It can usually be determined through an X-ray whether a bone graft is needed, although sometimes the problem is not discovered until the implant site has been opened.

The procedure is safe and effective.

Best results are usually achieved through “autograft” – using the patient’s own bone, such as from the jaws, hips, or ribs; or “allograft” – bones taken from other people, which are frozen or stored in tissue banks. A variety of natural and synthetic replacement materials can be used instead of bone. Another method for promoting bone formation is through the “Barrier Membrane Technique.” The membranes are made out of special materials placed over the bone graft site in order to promote growth and cell migration, which creates healthy bone. The membranes may resorb into the body or need to be removed at a later date. “Screws” and “tacks” may also be used and later removed.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) can be used to speed healing of bone (half the time) and soft tissue. It also aids in diminishing signs of inflammation such as pain, swelling, and bleeding. This is accomplished by using approximately one cup full of your blood (from IV) that is centrifuged and the platelets and growth factors are reintroduced into the surgical site.

Bone grafts can also be used to prevent further bone loss due to gingivitis. Other forms of gingival grafting include soft tissue grafts and guided tissue regeneration.

Soft Tissue Grafts

Gum recession can lead to worsening recession, exposed root surfaces, and softer enamel causing root caries and root gouging. In order to reinforce receding or thin gums and prevent additional bone loss, soft tissue—which is usually taken from the roof of the mouth (palate)—is stitched over the affected area. This procedure will result in an improved appearance while also preventing decay and reducing sensitivity to hot and cold foods.

Guided Tissue Regeneration

Guided tissue regeneration helps stimulate bone and gum tissue growth. Our oral surgeons will insert a mesh-like fabric between the bone and gum tissue that serves to prevent the gum tissue from growing into the area where bone should be. This procedure enables the bone and connective tissue to re-grow and provide better support for the affected teeth.