Pros and Cons of Bone Grafting
A bone grafting procedure can be used to fix issues that develop with the joints and bones. In dentistry, it is usually used to restore lost bone tissue in the jaw. A number of patients have to get such a procedure to be eligible for implants.
Bone grafting involves transplanting bone tissue from another part of the patient's body or an external source and using it to fix damaged bone tissue. It is used to fill up areas where extra tissue is needed.
Why bone grafting is performed in dentistry
Bone grafting can be performed for a variety of reasons. As far as dentistry is concerned, it is mostly used to bolster up a patient's jawbone tissue so it can hold implants in place. Implants are a popular way to replace missing teeth as they replace both the lost tooth and its root.
Dental implants help to prevent the bone tissue loss that is associated with missing teeth. Those who have failed to replace a missing tooth for a while are likely to have diminished jaw bone density. This can disqualify them from getting implants without first getting a bone graft.
Different types of bone grafting
These are two of the common types of bone grafts used nowadays:
1. Allograft pros and cons
This involves using bone from a deceased donor that has been processed and kept in a tissue bank. Allografts are often used for major bone grafts as are needed for procedures like knee and hip reconstruction.
The technique reduces the risk of infection since an additional surgery is not needed to extract grafting materials. The risk of rejection is also reduced because the source material has no living cells. There is no need to match the patient's blood type with the donor's.
However, some patients are not comfortable with the idea of getting bone tissue from a cadaver. In addition, allografting does not promote the growth of bone tissues, and it can be less accessible than other types of bone grafts due to limited supply.
2. Autograft pros and cons
In an autograft procedure, the bone tissue is harvested from a healthy part of the patient's body like the wrist, pelvis, wrist or ribs. Factors like the patient's health and the location of the bone graft often determine the type of bone grafting the dentist decides to perform.
There is no risk of rejection since the source material is taken from the patient's body. It can promote the growth of the patient's bone tissue. Plus, the bone grafting materials are easily accessible, being taken from the patient.
There are some downsides, however. The patient will have to get an additional operation. It can make recovery more painful since there are multiple surgery sites. As well, since grafting materials have to be taken from the patient's body, it is not ideal for major grafting procedures like the rebuilding of a long bone.
Need a dental bone graft?
Bone grafting can help restore your jaw bone. Call or visit our clinic to learn more about this surgical procedure that can make you eligible for implants.
Get started today…
Request an appointment here: https://www.brightonspecialtydental.com or call Brighton Specialty Dental Group at (805) 644-5284 for an appointment in our Ventura office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Related Posts
If you are missing all the teeth on your lower or upper jaw, you may be a good candidate for an All-on-4® system that uses four dental implants to secure a custom-fit fixed denture. It is a type of implant-supported denture that solves most of the common issues of traditional dentures. This article will outline…
A dental bridge might be the right treatment if you have lost one or more teeth and want to enhance your oral health and self-esteem. The dental bridge can restore your smile’s appearance and allow you to chew normally once more. If you are considering this treatment, this article outlines all the steps involved so…
A periodontist has the knowledge and training to prevent and diagnose periodontal disease. This oral health provider can perform necessary surgical procedures that can improve your oral health and smile. Knowing the role of this dentist in achieving your oral health can give you peace of mind. Here are the details about what a periodontist…
A family dentist serves as the front line of defense for oral health and preventive care. They can see patients from childhood all the way through their lives, allowing for a level of continued care, attention, and personal knowledge that is unmatched among other types of dental offices. If you are considering what kind of…