Major and minor bone
grafting.
Over a period of time, the jawbone
associated with missing teeth atrophies or
is reabsorbed. This often leaves a condition
in which there is poor quality and quantity
of bone. We now have the ability to grow
and place bone where it is 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. These procedures
may be performed separately or together,
depending upon the individual's condition.
There are several areas of the body which
are suitable for attaining bone grafts. In
the maxillofacial region, bone grafts can be
taken from inside the mouth, in the area of
the chin or third molar region or in the
upper jaw behind the last tooth. In more
extensive situations, a greater quantity of
bone can be attained from the hip or the
outer aspect of the tibia at the knee. One
type of bone graft procedures is the
maxillary sinus lift where this involves
elevating the sinus membrane and placing the
bone graft onto the sinus floor. This
allows for implants to be placed in the back
of the upper jaw. Another type of bone
grafting procedure is called
ridge-augmentation where a bone graft is
placed to increase the ridge height and
width.
