18 May

Getting to the Bare Bones of Grafting

Bone grafting is a procedure often recommended for patients who are hoping to undergo dental implant treatment.

About dental implants

Dental implants are an innovative option for patients who are looking to replace missing teeth. The implant is a small, screw-like prosthesis made from titanium. The aim of treatment is for the implant to replace the missing tooth root. Like a root, the implant is secured in the jaw bone. Once it is in place and has settled into the tissue (this process is known as osseointegration), it can be attached to a bridge, denture or crown.
In order for implant treatment to be successful, it is important that there is sufficient density and strength in the jaw bone tissue. If the tissue is weak or there is not enough bone tissue to anchor the implant, treatment may fail. This is where bone grafting comes in.

What is bone grafting?

Bone grafting is a procedure recommended when a patient has insufficient bone tissue to support a new implant. Grafting helps to build up the bone tissue and adds strength. It involves taking bone tissue from another part of the body or using synthetic or animal-based materials and placing it in the jaw bone.  Once grafting has taken place, the implant can then be placed in a small opening in the bone. Bone tissue that comes from the patient’s own body (usually from other parts of the mouth or the tibia) is less likely to be rejected.

How will I know if I’m a good candidate for implant treatment?

Implant treatment requires rigorous planning and our outstanding dentists will carry out a range of tests and examinations to determine whether or not implant treatment is suitable for you. This will include X-rays and scans to will help to show whether the bone is strong and dense enough to support an implant. If this is not the case, your dentist may discuss bone grafting with you or recommend alternative treatments that might be better suited to you, including dental bridges and dentures.