Surgical Procedures

Bone Grafting - Shrewsbury, NJ

Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth can atrophy or is reabsorb. This can leave a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, patients may not be candidates for placement of dental implants.

Today, we have the ability to grow bone where needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and esthetic appearance.

Bone grafting can repair implant sites with inadequate bone structure due to previous extractions, gum disease or injuries. Special membranes may be utilized that dissolve under the gum and protect the bone graft and encourage bone regeneration. This is called guided bone regeneration or guided tissue regeneration.

Another more common type of bone grafting is known as “socket preservation”. This is done to enhance bone growth into an extraction socket, and is done at the same time as the tooth is removed. It is a very predictable way to preserve bone for a future implant.

Ridge Preservation

Careful management of extraction sockets after tooth extraction prevents unsightly bone loss and allows for a better cosmetic outcome.