Bone Grafting

Why Bone Grafting Is Needed

After a tooth is removed or lost, the surrounding bone can begin to resorb. A bone graft can help rebuild the area and preserve the jaw structure. A dental bone grafting specialists like Dr. Ken Ross is key in this type of procedure.

Tooth loss causing bone deterioration:

After a tooth is removed or lost, the surrounding bone can begin to resorb. A bone graft can help rebuild the area and preserve the jaw structure.

Periodontal disease leading to bone loss
Advanced gum disease can damage the bone that supports the teeth. A dental bone grafting specialist may recommend grafting as part of a periodontal treatment plan to help restore support and improve long-term stability.

Preparing the jaw for dental implants
Dental implants need a strong, healthy foundation. If there is not enough bone height, width, or density, grafting may be necessary before an implant can be placed successfully.

Maintaining facial structure and oral function
Bone loss can affect the shape of the face, the way teeth come together, and the ability to chew comfortably. Rebuilding bone can help protect both appearance and function.

Types of Bone Grafting

There are several types of bone grafting materials that may be used depending on the patient’s needs, the amount of bone loss, and the treatment goal. As a dental bone grafting specialist, Dr. Ross will determine the most appropriate option after a detailed evaluation.

Autograft
An autograft uses bone taken from another area of the patient’s own body. Because it comes from the patient, it contains natural bone-forming properties, but it may require an additional surgical site.

Allograft
An allograft uses carefully processed donor bone. This is a common option because it avoids the need to take bone from another area of the patient’s body while still providing a structure for new bone growth.

Xenograft
A xenograft uses bone material from another species, most commonly bovine. It is specially processed for safe dental use and acts as a scaffold that supports the body’s natural bone regeneration process.

Alloplast
An alloplast is a synthetic bone substitute. These materials are designed to support new bone growth and may be recommended in certain cases based on the location and size of the grafting area.

Procedure Overview

Bone grafting is carefully planned to make the procedure as predictable and comfortable as possible. The exact process can vary depending on whether the graft is being done after an extraction, before implant placement, or as part of periodontal treatment.

1. Consultation and imaging – The first step is a complete evaluation of the mouth, gums, and jawbone. Digital imaging helps Dr. Ross assess the amount of bone loss and determine the best grafting approach.
2. Preparation of the graft site – The treatment area is cleaned and prepared so the graft material can be placed in the proper position. Local anesthesia is used to keep the patient comfortable during the procedure.
3. Placement of bone graft material –The selected graft material is placed into the area where bone support is needed. In some cases, a protective membrane may be used to help guide healing and protect the graft.
4. Healing period for new bone growth – Over time, the body naturally integrates the graft material and begins forming new bone. Healing time varies by patient and by the size of the graft, but this stage is important for long-term success.
5. Follow-up evaluation before implant placement – If the graft is being used to prepare for a dental implant, Dr. Ross will evaluate the healed area before moving forward with implant treatment.

Benefits

• Enables dental implant placement in patients with inadequate bone
• Preserves facial structure and prevents further bone loss
• Supports gum health and overall oral function
• Increases long-term success of implants