Why You May Need a Bone Graft Before an Implant
Some patients are good candidates for a dental implant right away while others may be told they need a bone graft before they can get an implant. Let’s dig into why that is.
What is an Implant?
An implant has a titanium steel screw that is placed into the jawbone where the root of the tooth once was that holds the implant in place. The dental implant is placed on top of this screw.
What is a Bone Graft?
A bone graft strengthens or thickens the existing bone in the jaw so it is better prepared for the placement of the screw for the implant.
What Happens to the Jaw Bone to Make it Need the Bone Graft?
Great Question! There are a few possible reasons.
Reason #1 Some people are just born with weaker, less dense bones in their jaw. Genetics can play a role in the bone being weaker or not growing to a thickness that can support a dental implant.
Reason #2 Complications due to preexisting health problems are another cause of bone loss or weakening. Some health problems, such as autoimmune diseases, cancer, vitamin deficiencies, and osteoarthritis, can cause bones to weaken over time. The bones may become so weak that they are unable to successfully adapt to a dental implant.
Reason #3 When you lose a tooth and it is not replaced right away or very soon after the loss, there is nothing to stimulate the root in the jaw bone. Over time, your body begins to reabsorb the jaw bone in this area due to non-use and the teeth nearby may begin to start to move over and close up the space left open by the missing tooth as well. This is one of several reasons why it is so important to replace a missing tooth as soon as possible after tooth loss occurs.
If you’re thinking of getting dental implants and you may need a bone graft, Dr. Pollock and his team can help! Call our office today!
