Bone Grafting and Ridge Augmentation

Bone grafting is the replacement or enhancement of bone around teeth. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone collapses. Bone grafting is performed to reverse bone loss or enhance existing bone. The grafting material can be taken from parts of the body or from synthetic material. Bone grafting allows for proper support of dental implants or prostheses.

Adequate bone volume of the jawbone is necessary for the secure placement, stability, function, aesthetics and longevity of implants.  Because tooth loss can result in diminished bone volume in the jawbone, a bone expansion procedure may be necessary prior to implant placement.  This procedure can increase the height and/or width of the jaw ridge through the use of mechanical manipulation combined with a bone graft.  The ridge expansion takes several months to mature and be sufficiently strong for the placement of implants.  Ridge expansion not only improves the function of implants, but is also a key contributor to the enhanced aesthetics, filling in the face around the gums and jaw and thus minimizing the appearance of aging.