Bone grafting is a procedure that restores lost bone in the jaw, creating a solid foundation for future dental work.
It is often needed for patients who want dental implants but do not have enough bone to support them. The process also helps maintain facial structure, preventing a sunken look that can come with bone loss. At Ballantyne Family Dental in Charlotte, NC, we provide expert bone grafting solutions to help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.Â
If you are considering dental implants or need to restore lost bone, schedule a consultation today.
What Is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting helps rebuild areas where the bone has deteriorated, ensuring your jaw stays strong and functional. Whether due to missing teeth, gum disease, or injury, bone loss can make it difficult to support implants or even keep your natural teeth healthy. This treatment stimulates new bone growth and preserves your long-term oral health.
- Restores bone density and volume: Rebuilds areas affected by bone loss.
- Creates a stable foundation: Supports future dental work like implants.
- Protects facial structure: Prevents unwanted changes to your appearance.
- Encourages natural bone growth: Helps the body regenerate healthy bone.
Why Does Bone Loss Happen?
Bone loss happens when the jawbone no longer gets the stimulation it needs to stay strong. This can occur when a tooth is lost, gum disease progresses, or an injury damages the bone. Over time, the jaw can shrink, affecting your ability to chew, speak, and maintain a natural facial appearance.
- Tooth loss: Without stimulation, the bone beneath it starts to deteriorate.
- Periodontal disease: Advanced gum disease can break down the bone structure.
- Injuries or trauma: Accidents, fractures, or extractions can lead to bone loss.
- Long-term denture use: Can cause gradual shrinkage of the jawbone.
Types Of Bone Grafting Procedures
Different bone grafting techniques are available depending on how much bone loss has occurred. Some procedures focus on preventing bone shrinkage right after an extraction, while others rebuild lost bone for better function and aesthetics. Your dentist will determine the best approach based on your needs.
- Socket Preservation: Protects the bone immediately after a tooth is removed.
- Ridge Augmentation: Restores lost bone width and height for better stability.
- Sinus Lift: Increases bone volume in the upper jaw for implant placement.
- Periodontal Bone Grafting: Repairs bone loss caused by gum disease.
Benefits Of Bone Grafting
Bone grafting does more than just restore lost bone. It also helps protect your overall oral health. By strengthening the jaw, it improves your ability to chew and speak while preventing unwanted facial changes. Patients who undergo bone grafting experience better long-term results with dental implants and restorations.
- Creates a strong foundation: Provides support for implants and other restorations.
- Prevents further bone deterioration: Helps maintain healthy jawbone structure.
- Supports facial aesthetics: Reduces the risk of a sunken or aged appearance.
- Improves oral function: Enhances the ability to eat, talk, and smile with confidence.
What To Expect During The Bone Grafting Process
The bone grafting process is designed to be safe, effective, and as comfortable as possible. Healing time varies based on the type of graft and the patient’s overall health, but most people recover within a few months. Once the bone is fully integrated, it provides a stable base for future dental treatments.
- Consultation and planning: A thorough evaluation to determine the right grafting method.
- Graft placement: Bone material is carefully placed in the area where it is needed.
- Healing and integration: The graft stimulates natural bone growth over time.
- Final restoration: Once healed, the site is ready for implants or additional care.
Rebuild Your Smile With A Stronger Foundation
Bone grafting is an essential step in restoring oral health and creating a lasting smile. It strengthens the jaw, prevents future complications, and makes dental implants possible for many patients. At Ballantyne Family Dental in Charlotte, NC, we provide personalized care to help you achieve the best possible results. Take the first step toward a healthier smile and schedule your consultation today.