When someone loses teeth, dental implants are the best restoration option. With proper maintenance, they can last a lifetime, and they look and feel like natural teeth. However, not everyone qualifies for implants right away. You may need to undergo bone grafting first, but the only way to be sure is to schedule a time to visit Gulf Coast Smiles.
When Is a Bone Graft Essential?
Over time, people lose density in the jawbone. Additionally, if the tooth has been missing for a while, then the jawbone will deteriorate faster. The roots of teeth stimulate the bone tissue, keeping it vibrant. However, when those roots are lost, the jawbone tissue in that area no longer has a function, so the body resorbs it. Therefore, when patients wait too long to get dental implants, it is possible the jawbone is too weak to support the implant.
An implant needs to fuse with the jawbone to work. This is known as osseointegration, and it keeps the implant secure to hold the abutment and crown in place. The jawbone needs to be strong enough to fuse properly.
What Does the Grafting Procedure Entail?
Our dentist will either take bone tissue from another part of the body or use a specialized grafting material to put into the jawbone. You will need to wait for several months for the graft to take hold. At a later appointment, our dentist will test to make sure the jawbone is strong enough to support the implant.
What Should You Do?
You need to contact our office to schedule a consultation today if you need implants. Through an examination, Dr. Mauricio Martinez will be able to tell if bone grafting is necessary first. It will increase the total cost of your implants, but it may be the only way to get them. Before starting anything, Dr. Martinez will provide you with an estimate of the entire procedure.
