Jaw Bone Grafting in Bedford, NH
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Restoring Bone Strength for a Healthier, Long-Lasting Smile
For patients with jawbone loss, jaw bone grafting is a highly effective procedure that strengthens the bone structure, making it possible to support dental implants and maintain facial aesthetics. If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for dental implants due to bone loss, Bedford Center for Prosthodontics offers advanced bone grafting solutions to help restore your oral health and functionality.
Whether due to tooth loss, gum disease, trauma, or aging, bone loss can impact your ability to receive implant-supported restorations. With state-of-the-art grafting techniques, we can rebuild lost bone volume, ensuring a strong and stable foundation for long-term dental health.
What Is Jaw Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a regenerative procedure that replaces and stimulates new bone growth in areas where the jawbone has deteriorated. The procedure involves placing grafting material in the affected area, which encourages the body to naturally regenerate bone tissue over time.
This treatment is often necessary before placing dental implants, as a healthy, stable jawbone is essential for implant success.
When Is Bone Grafting Needed?
Jaw bone grafting is typically required when patients experience:
- Bone loss due to missing teeth – After a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone begins to shrink due to lack of stimulation.
- Severe gum disease (periodontitis) – Advanced gum disease can erode the jawbone, leading to loose teeth or difficulty placing implants.
- Facial trauma or injury – Accidents or jaw fractures can result in bone loss that affects oral function.
- Long-term denture wear – Traditional dentures that rest on the gums do not stimulate the bone, leading to deterioration over time.
- Sinus expansion (sinus pneumatization) – When upper teeth are missing for an extended period, the sinus cavity may expand, reducing available bone for implants.
If you've been told that your jawbone is too thin or weak for implants, a bone grafting procedure may make you a candidate for Full Arch Implant Restoration or individual dental implants.
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Types of Jaw Bone Grafting Procedures
1. Socket Preservation (Ridge Preservation)
Performed immediately after tooth extraction, this procedure prevents bone shrinkage by filling the empty socket with grafting material. It helps maintain bone volume, improving future implant success.
2. Sinus Lift (Sinus Augmentation)
For patients missing teeth in the upper back jaw, the sinus cavity may expand, reducing bone height. A sinus lift raises the sinus floor and places bone grafting material to create adequate bone volume for dental implants.
3. Ridge Augmentation
When significant bone loss has occurred, ridge augmentation rebuilds the jawbone’s width and height. This technique restores facial contours and provides a stable foundation for implants.
4. Block Bone Grafting
For severe bone loss, a small block of bone is taken from another area of the body or a donor source and secured to the deficient area. This method is often used for advanced cases requiring extensive bone regeneration.
5. Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR)
A specialized membrane is placed over grafted bone material to stimulate new bone growth while preventing soft tissue interference. This technique ensures predictable, long-term results.
The Jaw Bone Grafting Process
1. Consultation & Imaging
- We use advanced 3D imaging to assess bone loss and determine the most suitable grafting technique.
- A customized treatment plan is created to restore the missing bone structure.
2. Bone Grafting Procedure
- The grafting material (natural bone or synthetic bone) is precisely placed in the deficient area.
- The site is protected with a membrane or sutures to promote healing.
- In some cases, dental implants may be placed at the same time as the bone graft.
3. Healing & Bone Integration
- The graft integrates with your natural bone over 3-6 months, stimulating new bone growth.
- Once healed, the site is ready for implant placement or further restorative treatment.
Jaw Bone Grafting for Dental Implants
If you’re considering dental implants but have been told you don’t have enough bone, a bone graft can help by:
- Increasing implant success rates by ensuring a solid foundation
- Allowing for larger, more stable implants in areas of significant bone loss
- Preventing complications such as implant failure or shifting
What to Expect After Bone Grafting
- Mild swelling and discomfort for a few days, which can be managed with pain medication.
- A soft diet is recommended during initial healing.
- Follow-up visits will monitor progress and determine when the bone is ready for implant placement.
Most patients heal completely within a few months, depending on the size and complexity of the graft.
Why Choose Bedford Center for Prosthodontics for Bone Grafting?
- Specialized Expertise – Our prosthodontists are highly trained in bone regeneration and implant dentistry.
- State-of-the-Art Technology – We use 3D imaging and guided techniques for precision and predictable results.
- Customized Treatment Plans – Every bone grafting procedure is tailored to your unique needs.
- Comprehensive Care – We offer seamless integration with dental implants for a complete restoration.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is jaw bone grafting painful?
No, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia or sedation, ensuring patient comfort. Some mild soreness is normal post-surgery but can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
How long does it take for a bone graft to heal?
Healing typically takes 3–6 months, depending on the size of the graft. Once healed, the site is ready for dental implant placement.
Where does the bone grafting material come from?
Bone grafts can come from:
- Your own bone (autograft)
- A donor source (allograft)
- Synthetic bone material (alloplast)
Can I get a bone graft and dental implant at the same time?
In some cases, yes. If there is enough initial bone structure, we may be able to place the implant and bone graft simultaneously.
Will my body reject the bone graft?
Bone graft rejection is extremely rare. We use biocompatible materials designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing bone.
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