Your dentist mentioned you might need bone grafting to get a dental implant. Now you're home researching what that actually involves. While "bone grafting" might sound intimidating, it's a common procedure that allows many people to get implants who are not initially good candidates.
What Is Bone Grafting in Dentistry?
Think of bone grafting as providing a strong foundation for a house. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone that once supported it begins to shrink gradually. Bone grafting replaces this lost bone tissue, creating a solid foundation for dental implants or preserving the jaw's natural structure.
The procedure involves placing bone graft material where it has been lost, which encourages the body to regenerate new, healthy bone tissue.
Why Is Bone Grafting Necessary?
Our dentist may recommend bone grafting in Duncan, BC, for several reasons:
- Create the bone volume needed for dental implant procedures
- Preserve the tooth socket for future restoration after extraction
- Restore lost bone volume due to periodontal disease damage
- Maintain bone volume to preserve natural facial proportions
Types of Dental Bone Grafts Explained
Understanding your bone grafting options can help you in making an informed decision about your care.
- Autograft (Your Bone) — Uses bone from another area of your body. Because it's your tissue, it integrates remarkably well.
- Allograft (Human Donor Bone) — Carefully processed donor bone offers excellent results without requiring a second surgical site on your body.
- Xenograft (Animal-Derived) — Usually bovine-sourced and completely safe, providing excellent scaffolding for natural bone growth.
- Alloplast (Synthetic) — Man-made materials that mimic natural bone properties while eliminating donor material concerns.
Who Makes a Good Bone Grafting Candidate?
Most people who need additional bone volume are excellent candidates. Your dentist will assess your overall health, oral hygiene, current bone density, and lifestyle factors to determine the most suitable approach for your case.
Is Dental Bone Grafting for You?
Ready to learn how bone grafting can benefit you? Contact Dr. Scott Stuart at Island Dental Health Centre in Duncan, BC, to schedule your consultation.