Qualifying for Dental Implants with Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is sometimes required when you do not have sufficient bone tissue to ensure successful osseointegration of dental implants. In order to create the permanent and stable foundation for which dental implants are heralded, patients must have adequate jawbone tissue to support them. A bone grafting procedure can supplement existing jawbone tissue, allowing patients who might otherwise be disqualified from the procedure to restore their candidacy for dental implants. Bone grafting requires a few months of recovery; however, Dr. Stephen J. Malki can perform both bone grafting and dental implant surgeries at our River Edge, NJ, office for added convenience.

When is Bone Grafting Necessary?

Bone grafting is often a necessary procedure for patients to qualify for dental implants. After losing one or more teeth, the jawbone begins to deteriorate. Patients who do not replace those teeth with implants right away are subject to a significant loss of tissue in the bone within the first year. The longer patients go without replacing their missing teeth, the more likely they are to need a preliminary procedure such as bone grafting or a sinus lift.

By replacing the tooth roots, dental implants can successfully fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. This fusion creates the strong and stable foundation that makes dental implants so successful.

A bone grafting procedure can supplement existing jawbone tissue, allowing patients who might otherwise be disqualified from the procedure to restore their candidacy for dental implants.

What can I Expect during the Procedure?

Dr. Malki can perform all bone grafting procedures in our office. A local anesthetic will numb the treatment area so you will not feel any pain. Bone grafts may consist of bone taken from another part of your own body, from a donor, or made from synthetic materials.

After determining the locations in need of a graft, Dr. Malki can create an incision in your gums. The graft is then placed in the jawbone, where it will be held in place with a protective membrane that also helps ensure proper healing. After the graft is in place, he will close your incision with sutures.

Recovery after a bone graft procedure takes approximately three to six months. Dr. Malki will closely monitor you during this time to ensure the graft integrates with the existing tissues. Once he is satisfied that the bone graft is fully integrated, he can approve you for dental implant surgery.