When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone is often affected over time. Patients without enough jaw bone mass are not candidates for dental implants. Bone grafting helps generate and rebuild bone and increase bone density. It is often performed to address defects in a patient’s jaw, reverse bone loss, or enhance existing bone, allowing for the proper support of dental implants or prostheses.
For bone grafting procedures, Dr. Ricco may use grafting material that has been taken from the patient or another source. Synthetic material that contains tissue-stimulating proteins can also be used to encourage the body’s natural ability to regenerate bone and tissue. Bone grafting allows for the proper support of dental implants or prostheses. Healing time prior to the placement of the implants is generally between 4 and 6 months, though it can sometimes take longer.
