Replacing and rebuilding lost bone
Bone grafting replaces or augments bone in areas of tooth loss. Shrinkage of bone often occurs when a tooth is lost due to trauma, severe decay, or periodontal disease, and bone loss may have already occurred because of infection or pathology around a tooth. Common graft procedures include tooth-extraction site grafts, bone graft reconstruction, and grafting for a sinus lift.
The best material for a bone graft is your own bone. There are also many biocompatible bone substitutes and synthetic materials that can be used; most bone grafts use a person's own bone, possibly in combination with other materials, such as tissue-bank particles and collagen membranes.
As periodontists, our doctors are specialists in the bone and tissue that support teeth and implants; regenerative procedures like these are the heart of our surgical practice.
How bone grafting works
Prepare the Site
Small holes are made in the existing bone to cause bleeding; blood provides the cells that help bone heal.
Place the Graft
The graft is anchored in place, and bone-graft material is placed around its edges.
Protect & Close
A membrane is placed over the area and the incision is closed.
Heal & Build
The graft heals for about 6 to 12 months before dental implants can be placed.
Bone-building procedures we perform
Depending on where and how much bone has been lost, your periodontist may recommend one of these specialized grafting procedures.