Is Bone Grafting Only Necessary for Dental Implants?

Bone grafting is often part of the process of preparing the jaw for dental implants. However, it’s important to know that bone grafting does have other uses and extends beyond dental implants alone. Patients can benefit from bone grafting in varied ways, including when restoring jawbone health and preventing other threats to overall oral health.

In Support of Dental Implants

One of the most common reasons to undergo a bone graft is when a strong foundation is needed for dental implants. Ultimately, implants require a specific amount of healthy jawbone to remain secure and in place. If the jawbone has deteriorated because of missing teeth, then a bone graft needs to be performed to rebuild this area and ensure there is enough support for dental implants. The use of bone grafting enables dental implants to be an actual option for patients who would otherwise not be considered candidates for the procedure. 

Jawbone Restoration After Periodontal Disease

Bone loss is a symptom of advanced periodontal disease.  In such cases, bone tissue can be restored via bone grafting procedures, regardless if dental implants are part of the treatment plan. When lost bone is regenerated, it can improve oral health and safety while also preserving natural teeth and making dental procedures easier in the future. 

Preventing Bone Resorption After Tooth Extraction

After a tooth extraction of one or more teeth, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate because it lacks tooth roots for stimulation. This process is known as bone resorption, and the loss of jaw bone volume and density can make it difficult to place dental implants while also changing the shape of your face as natural bone structure is not preserved. As such, bone grafting at the time of tooth extraction is a common dental practice as it can prevent future complications and maintain the jaw’s strength and shape. 

Protecting Your Smile: The Benefits of Bone Grafting

Ultimately, your jawbone requires constant stimulation from the root of the teeth. Without this stimulation, your jawbone could atrophy, impacting your oral health and facial appearance. Jaw bone resorption could also make it harder for you to take advantage of dental implants. 

Bone grafting plays a valuable role in many dental treatment plans by resolving these concerns. 

At SF Oral Surgery in San Francisco, our doctors provide bone grafting to help our patients enjoy stronger and healthier smiles. To learn more about how bone grafting could benefit you, explore our resources today.