Do I Have Enough Bone?
After a tooth extraction, thick socket walls typically fill with bone naturally within two to three months. However, if the socket walls are thin, particularly in the upper and lower front teeth, this natural healing process may not be as reliable. In these cases, a bone graft is often recommended during the extraction to assist in filling the socket with bone. This helps preserve the necessary bone width and volume for future implant placement.
Safe and Effective Alternatives to Dentures
Conventional dentures can be bothersome, uncomfortable, and unstable. While dental implants are a great option for replacing a single tooth, a full set of individual implants can be costly and complex. By combining these two treatments, we can provide a solution that is effective for almost everyone.
Bone Grafting for Dental Implants
If your tooth was extracted many years ago and your bony ridge is thin, there may not be enough bone for a dental implant. In such cases, a bone graft can be placed next to the thin bone and allowed to heal for up to six months. Once the graft has fused with your existing bone, the implant can be placed. Bone grafting is typically a comfortable office procedure, with various materials available, including your own bone.
Additionally, if the sinus cavities in your upper jaw are large or low, extending into the tooth-bearing areas, you may require a sinus grafting procedure. This is common when back teeth in the upper jaw have been removed years ago, limiting the bone available for implants. The procedure is usually done in the office with local anesthesia and possibly sedation. During the procedure, the sinus membrane is located and elevated, with bone added to restore height for proper implant placement. This procedure can often be done at the same time as the implant placement.
