Dental implants have quickly become the preferred treatment for tooth loss because they look and feel natural. You’ll invest in your oral health and your quality of life because dental implants have the potential to last for several decades with the right foundation. Unfortunately, if you’ve lost density in your jaw, you’ll need to see an oral surgeon in Dallas for bone grafting to become a candidate for dental implants. Although it will add an extra step in your treatment plan, it will give your new smile the framework it needs to succeed.
Why is Bone Density Important for Dental Implants?
A dental implant replaces the entire structure of your lost tooth. To accomplish this, an implant post must be surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as a new root. Your jaw will fuse to the post through a process called osseointegration, which allows the implant to stay in place forever with the right aftercare. It also provides your restoration with unmatched stability.
Unfortunately, if you’ve lost density in your jaw, you won’t have enough bone to support the post. This is a common problem for people who lost their teeth from gum disease, or they’ve lived with tooth loss for several years. No matter the reason behind your compromised jaw density, you can become a candidate for dental implants with bone grafting.
What is Bone Grafting?
A bone graft is a surgical procedure to add thickness to your jawbone to areas where it has diminished. An oral surgeon takes a small section of bone from another area in your body and uses a grafting material to place it onto your jaw. Over the next several months, the graft creates new, strong bone to support your dental implant.
In most cases, you’ll need to be completely healed from bone grafting before moving on with your implant surgery; however, there are times a minor graft can be performed at the same time as your placement procedure.
Do I Need Bone Grafting?
It’s not always obvious that you’ve lost bone in your jaw, which is why your dentist uses a CT scan to determine your candidacy for dental implants. Besides a visual examination, your dentist also reviews the scan to see your oral structures in their entirety. They’ll inform you of the results and if you’ll need any additional treatments before getting your dental implants.
Complete Your Smile Today
Replacing your missing teeth with dental implants is an excellent investment in your future. Make sure your new smile has the stability it needs to thrive with bone grafting.
About Dr. Cameron Wendling
Dr. Wendling is supported by over a decade of experience in dental and surgical applications. He offers the skills necessary to treat complex oral health issues, like bone loss. If you need a bone graft in Dallas, he can create the groundwork you need to support your dental implants. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.