Bone Grafting for Dental Implants in Fort Worth

Our Fort Worth Dentist Can Help You Qualify for Dental Implants

Dental implants are a game-changer for restoring missing teeth, offering a natural look and feel that can last a lifetime. However, successful implantation often hinges on one critical factor: sufficient jawbone density. If your jawbone lacks the necessary volume or strength, bone grafting may be the answer you need.

If you’ve been told you can’t get dental implants because of insufficient jawbone density, get a second opinion today! Contact our Fort Worth dentist near you today at (817) 361-1999 to schedule an appointment.

What Is Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that augments or rebuilds the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for dental implants. When teeth are lost or extracted, the surrounding bone may deteriorate due to a lack of stimulation. Conditions like gum disease, trauma, or prolonged tooth loss can further reduce bone volume, making it insufficient to support an implant.

A bone graft involves placing bone material, sourced from your body, a donor, or synthetic materials, into the deficient area. Over time, this material integrates with your natural bone, creating a robust base for the implant.

Why Is Bone Grafting Necessary?

• Insufficient Bone Volume: Dental implants require a certain amount of bone to anchor securely.
• Bone Loss from Tooth Extraction: Without a tooth root, the jawbone can resorb over time.
• Periodontal Disease: Gum disease can erode bone, compromising implant candidacy.
• Trauma or Injury: Fractures or damage to the jaw may necessitate bone repair.
• Aesthetic and Functional Needs: A strong jawbone ensures proper implant placement and a natural-looking smile.

Types of Bone Grafts

• Autograft (Autogenous Bone Graft): Bone harvested from the patient’s own body, often from the chin, jaw, or hip.
• Allograft (Donor Bone Graft): Bone from a human donor, typically processed and sterilized from a bone bank.
• Xenograft (Animal-Derived Bone Graft): Bone sourced from animals, usually cows, processed to be biocompatible.
• Alloplast (Synthetic Bone Graft): Man-made materials like calcium phosphate or hydroxyapatite.

The Bone Grafting Procedure

Initial Consultation

• Assessment: Our Fort Worth dentist evaluates your oral health using X-rays, CT scans, or 3D imaging to assess bone density.
• Medical History: You’ll share your medical history, including medications and conditions.
• Treatment Plan: A customized plan is created, outlining the type of bone graft, timeline, and dental implant surgery.
• Sedation Options: Local anesthesia or dental sedation may be used based on the dental surgery.

The Bone Grafting Surgery

• Incision: We make a small incision in the gum to access the bone.
• Graft Placement: The chosen bone material is placed in the deficient area and secured with screws or membranes if needed.
• Closure: The incision is sutured, and a protective membrane may be applied to promote healing.

Healing and Integration

• Osseointegration: Over 3 to 6 months, the graft fuses with your natural bone, creating a stable foundation.
• Follow-Ups: Regular checkups will help Dr. Brit Phillips monitor healing and prepare for implant placement.

Dental Implant Procedure

Once the graft has fully integrated, the dental implant—a titanium post—is surgically placed into the bone. After another healing period, a dental crown is attached to complete the restoration.

To schedule an appointment and discuss your treatment options, contact our dental office near you at (817) 361-1999.

Benefits of Bone Grafts

Bone grafting offers numerous advantages, making it a worthwhile investment for many patients:

• Improved Dental Implant Success: A strong bone foundation enhances implant stability and longevity.
• Restored Facial Structure: Dental bone grafts prevent the sunken appearance caused by bone loss.
• Versatility: Suitable for patients with varying degrees of bone deficiency.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Supports natural-looking implants that blend seamlessly with your smile.
• Long-Term Oral Health: Preserves jawbone integrity, reducing the risk of further tooth loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a bone graft for my dental implant?

Your dentist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon will assess your jawbone using X-rays or CT scans. If bone volume or density is insufficient, a graft may be recommended.

Are there alternatives to bone grafting?

In some cases, alternatives like short implants, angled implants, or zygomatic implants may be considered. However, these options depend on your specific anatomy and bone condition.

Can bone grafting fail?

While rare, graft failure can occur due to infection, poor integration, or lifestyle factors like smoking. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions minimizes this risk.

How much does a bone graft cost?

A major bone graft can range between $2,000 and $3,500. Your total cost will depend on factors such as the bone graft material, the procedure complexity, and your location.

Offering Dental Services Near You

Don’t let bone loss hold you back from the smile you deserve. By rebuilding your jawbone, this procedure paves the way for successful implants that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Discover if you can get dental implants in Fort Worth by contacting our dentist near you at [practiceinfo field=”prac_phone”].