Bone Grafting

Restorative Treatment for Bone Loss

A bone graft is a versatile treatment option that can restore a single tooth socket, a large area of bone where multiple teeth are missing, or even increase the area of bone between the mouth and the sinus cavities. A bone graft is necessary to restore the foundation of the dental arch where the bone in the jaw has deteriorated. During a bone grafting procedure, an oral surgeon can place bone grafting material to restore the size and shape of the jaw. Over time, the bone graft material integrates with the existing bone, which restores the facial structure and creates a secure foundation to place dental implants.

The Bone Grafting Procedure

Advances in the field of oral surgery have made bone grafting procedures much simpler, reducing recovery times and improving results for patients. A bone graft consists of tiny granules of bone suspended in an easy-to-apply gel. Oral surgeons apply this material directly to the area of the jaw lacking in bone. In some circumstances, growth factors can be combined with the graft material to speed up the healing process. The bone material can be taken from your body or a tissue bank. In some circumstances, the oral surgeon can place the bone graft and the dental implant during the same surgical procedure, saving patients the time required to complete and heal after two separate procedures.

Types of Bone Grafting

When a tooth is missing on the upper arch, a sinus graft reinforces bone in the upper jaw to make implant placement possible. Watch the video to learn more!

We offer several common bone grafting procedures in our offices:

Sinus lift. Sometimes the maxillary sinuses, located behind the cheekbones, are too close for certain dental implants, such as upper back molars, to be placed. During a sinus lift procedure, bone graft material is placed between the sinus cavity and upper teeth, which creates enough space for a dental implant to be placed safely.

Ridge expansion. Bone loss due to missing teeth can affect the bony ridge that holds your teeth in place. This ridge is called the alveolar ridge and is paramount to secure implant placement. A ridge expansion procedure simply increases the width and/or height of this ridge.

Major bone grafting. Facial injuries, periodontal disease, birth defects, injuries, and other causes can present a larger area to graft. In most cases, bone is taken from the patient’s own body (usually from the jaw, hip, or tibia). A protective membrane may be used beneath the gums to promote healing while also protecting the graft.

Socket preservation helps reduce bone loss following tooth extraction and makes future implant placement easier. In some cases, a dental implant can be placed immediately after extraction. Watch the video to learn more!

Bone Grafting at Fresno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center

Your consultation will begin with a thorough exam to evaluate your oral health and assess your bone quality. Your oral surgeon will take X-rays and 3D scans to get detailed images of your facial structure and outline a treatment plan designed to meet your specific needs, including your options for anesthesia.

If you need a bone grafting or dental implant procedure, we can help. At our offices located in Fresno, Clovis, Reedley, Madera, and Visalia, our skilled team performs bone grafting procedures on a routine basis. Contact our office at the location nearest you for a consultation with one of our experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons, who will determine the best treatment options based on your specific condition.