Bone Grafting to Ensure Success
Some patients who are looking to stabilize their dentures may be told that they need to undergo a prior treatment in order to be eligible for their all-on-four treatment. Any surgical procedure can be intimidating so it is important to understand the reason behind the need for a bone grafting in order to comprehend its importance to the success of the entire procedure.
Patients can rest assured that it is a relatively minor procedure, as is the tooth implant procedure itself. However, every surgery carries risks so the dentists at High Dental Implants Melbourne work only under the strictest of hygiene conditions to ensure a sterile environment to bring about the best results. This treatment is usually completed in a hospital setting, for access to a vast array of specialized equipment.
Every dentist has been extensively trained and has had many years of experience in these matters. By working with a team of professionals who are capable and confident as well as friendly and compassionate, patients can feel comfortable throughout each step of their treatment plan, bringing them closer to their final goal of a healthier and more comfortable smile.
Bone grafts are a means to provide more density and structure to a patient’s jawbone. This is naturally lost over time without the appropriate stimulation that is only found through the pressure caused by biting and chewing with natural teeth. The jaw can also be stimulated with a replacement tooth root as found with an implant.
Unfortunately, dentures are unable to provide the appropriate stimulation needed for bone density to remain full. This means that dentures eventually begin to come loose as the jaw recedes. This can also prematurely age the face as the fullness and plumpness associated with youthfulness disappears and the face takes on a sunken look.
How does bone graft work?
A dentist will either use a patient’s natural bone from another area in the body or another animal’s tissue or even a synthetic material to replace a predetermined amount of bone back into the jaw. It can be done on either the top or bottom jaw. An alternative term is also used for this treatment on the upper jaw, which is also known as a sinus lift.
A patient’s own tissue is generally thought to be the most successful and is usually taken from the chin or hip. Some circumstances may lead to synthetic or animal tissue being preferred however, it depends on a patient’s personal situation which will be discussed during the treatment planning stage with the dentist.
A dentist will insert the replacement bone into the jaw and allow the natural bone to mesh seamlessly with the additional bone over the course of several months. It is not until the area is completely healed and sealed that the next step of the treatment plan will go ahead.
Constant monitoring is essential to ensure that healing is on track. If a patient experiences unusual swelling or pain, they are advised to consult their dentist immediately. This treatment has a high success rate and with appropriate aftercare, provides the results that both dentists and patients are seeking.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
