What does bone grafting have to do with dental implants?

When we have a dental implant, the implant will be attached to our jaw. Bone grafting is directly related to dental implant placement because dental implants require strong and sufficient jawbone to support them. If the bone is insufficient or not strong enough, the implant may not be able to adhere well. Sometimes, it is found that there is not enough bone to accommodate the implant. Bone grafting is required before the implant is placed.

In some cases, when the implant is placed, there is excess jawbone, so bone grafting is required to cover the excess. Once the wound has healed and the bone has set, the implant can be placed.

In cases where bone grafting is required before dental implant placement

1. Jawbone loss or atrophy – This often occurs after tooth loss for a long period of time, when there is no pressure from the original tooth root to stabilize the bone.
2. Bone thinning or shortening – This can occur naturally or due to severe gum disease.
3. Bone damage from tooth extraction, infection, or trauma – This can make the implant site less stable.
4. Areas near the sinuses (in the upper jaw) – In some cases, a “sinus lift” is required to increase bone volume before implant placement.