Will Your Dental Implants Require a Bone Graft?

In some cases, dental implants require bone grafting prior to setting the posts.

The posts require an adequate amount and density of bone tissue in the jaw for support, and grafting or transplanting new bone can help build a solid foundation. Without grafting, many patients would not be candidates for implants.

Whether your implants require a graft will depend on several factors. So, too, will the type of graft recommended for your procedure.

Autogenous Bone Grafts for Dental Implants

In many cases, surgeons use autogenous grafts (sometimes known as autografts), which is material that comes from your own body. The tissue may be taken from a rib, hip, leg or other body part.

Autogenous grafts offer two distinct advantages over other types of bone grafting. Bone tissue taken from a patient’s own body is by far the most effective grafting material for bone regeneration. And this type of grafting has the highest success rate, because the transplanted tissue carries no risk of being rejected by the body.

Consequently, most oral surgeons prefer this approach.

Alternative Sources of Bone Grafts for Dental Implants

Oral surgeons may use grafted bone from another human donor.

This type of graft is called an allograft, and allograft bone comes from a tissue bank. Tissue banks thoroughly test donor material to make sure that it is healthy and safe for transplant.

For some patients, a xenograft may be used. Xenografts involve the use of bovine (cow) or porcine (pig) bone. This material is quite safe and strong, capable of providing excellent support for dental implants.

Finally, some grafts are completed using man-made materials. Called alloplasts, these grafts are made from surgical-grade resins and other synthetic materials and minerals that allow natural bone to regenerate.

How Oral Surgeons Decide Which Bone Grafts to Use for Dental Implants

Autografts are considered to be an optimal choice for most patients because the material provides all of the elements required for bone regeneration. However, different surgical situations may call for a different type of grafting.

Every patient is unique, and their individual needs must be considered.

The wishes of the patient also must also be factored into the decision on which grafting material to use for dental implants. Some patients may refuse tissue harvesting, for example. Others may have religious convictions that prohibit the use of xenografts.

Of course, not all implants require bone grafting. If you don’t have bone loss in the jaw, you may have all the support you need already. The team at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Utah is experienced at performing all types of bone grafts. Once the doctor evaluates your case, we can advise you on your options.

Contact our South Jordan office today to schedule a consultation to discuss your dental implants.