Dental implants are a wonderful option for the replacement of teeth. Implants can be used to replace a single tooth or a patient’s entire dentition. The dental implant is a titanium post that fuses into the surrounding bone. A crown is then attached to the post to emulate a natural tooth in form and function. In order to have a stable implant, the implant needs adequate levels of bone to form a stable connection. A bone graft in Pittsburgh, PA, can restore the correct levels of bone for dental implant placement.
Why Do I Need a Bone Graft?
Unfortunately, some patients do not have enough bone for dental implants to be successful. Patients with missing teeth often have lower bone levels. Once a tooth is removed, the bone automatically undergoes changes. Bone loss can occur while removing a tooth and immediately after it is taken out. Without the tooth in place to stimulate bone growth, the surrounding bone collapses and can continue to resorb over time. Periodontal disease is also a leading cause of bone loss among patients.
The Benefits of a Bone Graft
A bone graft prior to dental implant placement offers a solution for a patient without enough bone for dental implants. Depending on the location in the mouth and severity of bone loss, your periodontist will decide which bone grafting materials will be needed.
A bone graft can also be placed at the time of extraction. In many cases, a bone graft can be placed after teeth have been extracted as well. Pain after a bone graft is often managed with minimal pain medications and sometimes an antibiotic as a precaution. Each patient is unique in time necessary for the bone grafting material to successfully integrate into the bone. Once the bone is ready, the implant can be placed.
Find Out if You Need a Bone Graft
A bone graft in Pittsburgh, PA, prior to implant placement has been very successful in dentistry and continues to be great option for patients considering dental implants to improve their smile. If you have experienced jaw bone loss as a result of missing teeth, contact our office for a consultation.