One of the biggest challenges facing our Chicago, IL patients is how extensive tooth loss affects the anatomy of bone in the jaw. Without proper bone support, dental implants lack the stability needed for long term support. Fortunately, our holistic dentist, Dr. Lopez, offers in-house bone grafting to make implant therapy an option for more patients.
Bone grafts add density to the jaw where previous bone anatomy has shrunk away (a common side effect of missing teeth or denture wear.) Placing hospital grade or patient-derived bone into the area makes it possible to install dental implants in a predictable and secure manner. As the bone integrates, it triggers additional bone formation to reverse the shrinkage seen after teeth have been removed. If you’ve been told that you’re not a candidate for dental implants, then bone grafting could change that. Our Chicago, IL holistic dentist offers in-house bone grafting along with sedation dentistry for the convenience of our dental implant patients.
You may need to consider seeing an implant provider about bone grafting if you’ve experienced any of the following:
Bone grafting can be performed in a few different manners. For some of our Chicago, IL patients, the extra bone is placed at the time a tooth is extracted. Otherwise, the area will need to be accessed for the graft to be placed. The bone can come from a donor or the patient’s own body, both of which are extremely safe and predictable. Following the procedure, the area will need to “heal” for a few months as new bone develops and integrates into the site of your future dental implant.
Bone grafting makes it possible for non-traditional implant patients to enjoy the longevity and investment that implants have to offer. Even if you have been told previously you are not a candidate for dental implants, you may qualify after a bone grafting procedure. Talk to our team about your options and restore your smile!