Patients considering dental implants who do not have enough bone density in their jawbone may need to undergo a bone extension procedure. This treatment, also known as ridge expansion, can help provide a stable foundation for the implant to anchor into, ensuring a successful long-term tooth replacement experience. Here is everything you need to know about the bone extension process.
The alveolar ridge bone is the bone that supports the teeth. This bone serves as a strong foundation for dental implants. However, this bone can deteriorate due to age, disease, or multiple missing teeth. If a patient does not have enough bone mass in this area of their jawbone, they may need to undergo a bone extension procedure to increase the amount of bone available for dental implants.
Fortunately, a bone extension is a relatively simple procedure that a general dentist can perform at their office. They use it to increase the bone density available for future dental implants. During the procedure, the dentist separates the inner and outer segments of the ridge bone so the bone graft material can be placed in the space between them.
As the bone graft heals, it will help widen the jaw bone. The extension process takes place over several weeks. Once it is complete, the patients can undergo dental implant placement.
Bone extensions are necessary if a dentist determines that a patient does not have enough bone to support a dental implant. For example, if they have a ridge bone that is too narrow or they lack vertical bone height. Sometimes, the jawbone can also degrade due to severe periodontal disease.
However, the most common reason for undergoing the procedure is to address the complications of tooth loss. When a person loses a tooth, the bone that once supported it begins to deteriorate. This is known as bone resportion, which causes the bone to gradually shrink and thin over time. As a result, the patient may not have enough healthy bone to support dental implants.
Bone extension surgery is typically performed at a general dentistry office under sedation. Once the patient is asleep, the dentist will make an incision in the gums to reach the underlying bone. They will then use multiple tools and chisels to gradually separate the inner and outer pieces of bone. Once the dentist makes enough space between the pieces of bone, they can place the bone graft material into the prepared area. They will then suture the incision shut.
Recovery from a bone extension procedure is usually mild. Patients may experience some soreness and swelling in the treatment area. However, this discomfort can be effectively managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Most people can return to their normal activities within a few days after the procedure.
During recovery, it is important to avoid chewing on the same side where the procedure was performed. The chewing and biting pressure can interfere with the healing process. Additionally, the patient should follow all of their dentist's instructions regarding oral hygiene, antibiotics, and other postoperative care to reduce the risk of complications.
The healing process from the bone extension will need to fully heal before the dentist can safely place the patient's implants. In most cases, it takes anywhere from four to six months for the body to grow new bone that is strong enough to support dental implants. After the dentist determines that the patient has healed properly without complications, they can place the implants.
If you are considering dental implants but do not have enough mass in your jawbone, a bone extension might be the solution you have been looking for. Ready to learn more? Call our Palmdale office to schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.kananidental.com or call Absolute Dental Care at (661) 234-7720 for an appointment in our Palmdale office.
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