Periodontal disease is the leading cause of bone loss in the oral cavity, though there are others such as ill-fitting dentures and facial trauma.  The bone grafting procedure is an excellent way to replace lost bone tissue and encourage natural bone growth.  Bone grafting is a versatile and predictable procedure which fulfills a wide variety of functions.

Reasons for Bone Grafting 

Insufficient Bone for Dental Implants - Implants are the preferred replacement method for missing teeth because they restore full functionality to the mouth; however, implants need to be firmly anchored to the jawbone to be effective.  If the jawbone lacks the necessary quality or quantity of bone, bone grafting can strengthen and thicken the implant site.

Tooth Loss - When a tooth is lost or extracted, the bone that once supported the tooth can start to shrink or resorb over time. Bone grafting can help rebuild the bone structure to provide a stable foundation for dental implants. 

Periodontal Disease -Severe gum disease can cause the bone that supports the teeth too deteriorate. Bone grafting may be needed to restore the lost bone.

Bone Resorption from Age -As people age, bone density in the jaw can decrease, making it difficult to place implants 

What Does Bone Grafting Treatment Involve?

Bone grafting is a fairly simple procedure that can be performed under local anesthetic. A small incision is made in the gum tissue and then gently separated from the bone.  The bone grafting material is then placed at the affected site. The gum is sutured in place and a follow-up appointment will need to be made within 10 days to assess progress.  Bone grafting is a highly successful treatment and a good base for further periodontal restorations.

 The bone regeneration process may be aided by:

• Gum/bone tissue regeneration – A thin barrier (membrane) is placed below the gum line over the grafting material.  This barrier creates enough space for healthy tissue to grow and separates the faster growing gum tissue from the slower growing fibers.  This means that bone cells can migrate to the protected area and grow naturally.
  
  
• Tissue stimulating proteins – Enamel matrix proteins occur during natural tooth development.  Emdogain is a matrix protein product which is placed on the affected site before the gum is sutured.  It mediates the formation of accellular cementum on the tooth which provides a foundation to allow periodontal attachment to occur.  Tissue stimulating proteins help create lost support in areas affected by periodontal defects.


• Platelet-rich growth factors – A high platelet concentration liquid can be used to create a blood clot at the site of a wound.  It has recently been discovered that PRGF also stimulates bone growth – meaning a denser graft in a shorter time period.

If you have any questions about bone grafting, please ask your dentist.