Bone Grafting in Encino, CA
Major & Minor Bone Grafting: Restoring Jaw Health and Functionality
When teeth are missing over time, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate or atrophy, resulting in reduced bone quality and quantity. This condition often leaves insufficient bone for dental implants and may also lead to shifting of remaining teeth, changes in facial appearance, and o ther health issues. Fortunately, modern bone grafting techniques allow us to rebuild lost bone and restore both functionality and aesthetics, making dental implants a viable option for many patients who would otherwise not be candidates for them.
The Importance of Healthy Jawbone
Why is the health of your jawbone important?
Teeth play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the jawbone. When teeth are missing, the alveolar bone (the bone that anchors the teeth) no longer receives the stimulation it needs from activities like chewing and biting. As a result, the bone begins to break down, a process known as resorption. Over time, this can lead to:
- Misalignment and loosening of remaining teeth
- Collapsed facial profile and reduced lip support
- Wrinkling around the mouth and distortion of facial features
- Jaw pain (TMJ), facial discomfort, and headaches
- Difficulty speaking and eating
- Nutritional issues due to the inability to chew properly
- Sinus expansion (in some cases)
Causes of Bone Loss and Jaw Deterioration
What causes jawbone deterioration and how can bone grafting help?
Several factors can lead to the loss of jawbone, requiring bone grafting to restore it. These include:
- Tooth Extractions
When a tooth is removed and not replaced, the jawbone at the extraction site begins to deteriorate. This bone loss can continue gradually, especially within the first 18 months after an extraction. - Periodontal Disease
Gum infections, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, can lead to the loss of the bone and tissue supporting the teeth. As gum disease progresses, it weakens the foundation of the teeth, leading to further tooth loss. - Dentures & Bridgework
Traditional dentures, which sit on top of the gums, do not stimulate the underlying bone. Over time, this lack of stimulation causes the bone to resorb. Similarly, with bridgework, bone loss can occur in the areas where teeth are missing.
Bone Grafting Overview: Restoring Bone and Function
What is bone grafting and how does it restore your jawbone?
Bone grafting is a procedure that restores lost bone and stimulates new bone growth, creating a foundation for dental implants and other restorative treatments. This process helps rebuild jawbone in areas where it has deteriorated due to missing teeth, trauma, disease, or congenital defects. Bone grafts not only allow for proper implant placement but also help preserve the facial structure and functionality of the mouth.
Types of Bone Grafts
What types of bone grafts are available, and how do they differ?
There are three main types of bone grafts used in dental procedures:
- Autogenous Bone Grafts (Autografts)
Autogenous bone grafts use bone harvested from your own body, typically from the chin, jaw, hip, or lower leg. This type of graft is ideal because it contains living bone cells that encourage new bone growth. However, it requires a second procedure to collect the bone, which may not be suitable for all patients. - Allogenic Bone Grafts (Allografts)
Allografts use bone from a deceased donor that has been processed and freeze-dried to eliminate any water content. While these grafts do not promote new bone growth, they provide a structural framework for surrounding bone to grow into. Allografts avoid the need for a second surgery, though they may take longer for the bone to regenerate. - Xenogenic Bone Grafts (Xenografts)
Xenografts use bone from another species, typically cows, which is carefully processed to avoid immune rejection. Like allografts, xenografts provide a scaffold for new bone to grow but do not have bone-forming properties of their own.
Major Bone Grafting: Advanced Restoration
When is major bone grafting necessary, and what does the procedure involve?
Major bone grafting is typically performed to correct more significant bone loss, often as a result of trauma, tumor surgery, or congenital defects. The procedure may involve harvesting bone from a variety of donor sites, including the skull, hip, or tibia, depending on the amount of bone needed. In some cases, a sinus bone graft may be required to restore bone in the upper jaw.
Additionally, guided bone regeneration (GBR) may be used, where special membranes are placed to protect the graft and encourage bone growth. Major bone grafts usually require a hospital stay and are performed in an operating room.
Minor Bone Grafting: Targeted Enhancement
What is minor bone grafting, and how can it benefit your dental implants?
Minor bone grafting is often used to address smaller areas of bone loss. It may be performed in conjunction with dental implant placement to ensure there is enough bone for proper support. This less invasive procedure generally involves less recovery time compared to major grafting.
Benefits of Bone Grafting
How can bone grafting improve your oral health?
Bone grafting offers numerous benefits, including:
- Restores adequate bone structure for dental implants
- Enhances the appearance of the facial profile by preventing further bone loss
- Prevents the shifting and loosening of remaining teeth
- Improves overall oral health, allowing for better function and nutrition
The Path Forward
Am I a candidate for bone grafting and dental implants?
If you are dealing with bone loss due to missing teeth, trauma, or other conditions, bone grafting may offer a solution to restore your smile and improve your oral health. At our practice, Dr. Lokot specialize in both major and minor bone grafting procedures, tailoring treatments to meet your specific needs. With advanced techniques and personalized care, we can help you regain a healthy and functional smile.
Contact us today to learn more about how bone grafting can improve your oral health and restore your quality of life.