Dealing With Dental Bone Loss: Dental Implants and Bone Regeneration

Bone regeneration is a procedure that involves replacing lost bone inside of the jaw to ensure a secure fit for dental implants. Bone regeneration is often an essential step of the preparation process for dental implants, and learning more about it can help you decide if seeking treatment is right for you.

Bone regeneration before dental implants placement

Bone regeneration and dental implants are a great way to restore lost bone density and replace missing teeth. This review goes into depth on what bone regeneration is and when it is necessary. We also take a close look at what dental implants are and what you can expect throughout the treatment process. 

The need for healthy bone before dental implants

Dental bone loss often occurs when teeth are missing. This is because the natural tooth was supported by the bone inside of the jaw, which is the main purpose of the jawbone surrounding a tooth. Once the tooth is no longer there, the bone loses its purpose and atrophy can occur. If bone loss occurs, then a bone regeneration may be necessary, especially if the person plans to replace the missing tooth (or teeth) with dental implants. This is because the dental implants, much like natural teeth, rely on support by the jawbone. 

Bone regeneration defined and when it is necessary

Bone regeneration refers to an oral surgery procedure that involves placing a bone graft into the jawbone to stimulate bone growth. The goal is to get the new bone to fuse with the existing bone and encourage regeneration of lost bone inside of the jaw. Many dentists recommend bone regeneration as soon after tooth loss as possible, and it is commonly performed following a tooth extraction procedure as well. As it relates to dental implants, bone grafting may be necessary before treatment to ensure the patient has enough bone density in their jaw for the dental implant to properly fuse together inside of the jaw. 

How dental implants work after bone regeneration

After a successful bone regeneration and the mouth heals, the dental implants are placed into the jawbone. A process that is known as osseointegration then takes place, which involves the titanium implant fusing with the jaw. After, an additional (although far less invasive) procedure is necessary, which includes placing the abutment and artificial replacement. 

The importance of preventing bone loss after tooth loss occurs

Bone regeneration is designed to regenerate bone loss after tooth loss or extraction occurs. However, the best strategy is to prevent bone loss from occurring through socket preservation or dental implants soon after tooth loss. Otherwise, a bone graft procedure may be necessary right before dental implants treatment, which makes the process longer and more invasive. 

Our dentistry offers dental implants for teeth replacement

Our dental team offers dental implants, and we can guide you through the treatment process. During your consultation visit with us, we can examine your smile and determine if bone regeneration is necessary before dental implants treatment.

Request an appointment here: http://www.allsmilesdentalcenter.com or call All Smiles Dental Center at (210) 714-7429 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.

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