Why is bone grafting needed?
After a tooth is extracted, the jawbone gradually becomes thinner and shrinks. In areas that have been without teeth for a long time, with gum disease or after an injury, there may not be enough bone left to support an implant.
In this case, the bone graft acts as a scaffold for new bone to form. It can also be placed in the socket at the same session as the extraction to reduce bone loss.
Who is it for?
Bone grafting and sinus lifts can be used for adults who are considering implants but do not have enough bone width or height. They are needed more often in people who have been without teeth for a long time, have had advanced gum disease or have lost teeth in the upper back jaw.
Uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking or certain medicines that affect bone metabolism can affect healing. So it is important to tell us about any medicines you take and your general health at your examination.
What is a sinus lift?
In the back of the upper jaw, just above the molars, there are air spaces called sinuses. After teeth are lost, the sinus can expand downwards and the bone height may become insufficient for an implant.
In a sinus lift, the sinus membrane is lifted upwards without tearing it, and bone graft material is placed in the space created. A closed or open technique is chosen depending on the amount of bone; the implant is sometimes placed in the same session and sometimes after healing.
Materials and healing
Bone graft material can be natural or synthetic in origin; which is suitable depends on the area and your needs. At our practice we use certified, high-quality materials, and procedures are carried out with careful surgical technique.
In most cases it takes a few months for the graft to turn into bone. The plan and waiting time that suit you are decided together with your dentist after an examination and imaging.
There may be mild swelling and tenderness for a few days after the procedure. Avoiding smoking during healing and keeping your check-up appointments help the graft turn into bone successfully.
How does the treatment work?
- Examination and imagingThe amount of bone and the sinus anatomy are assessed with X-rays and, if needed, 3D imaging.
- PlanningWe explain whether a bone graft or sinus lift is needed and whether it can be done in the same session as the implant.
- ProcedureThe bone graft is placed under local anaesthetic and the area is closed.
- Healing and implantBone formation is monitored at check-up appointments, and the implant stage begins at the right time.
Frequently asked questions
Is bone grafting painful?
Because bone grafting is carried out under local anaesthetic, you usually feel no pain during the procedure. There may be mild pain and swelling for a few days afterwards; for most people this eases with the recommended medication.
What should I be careful about after a sinus lift?
In the first few weeks, it is advisable not to blow your nose hard, to sneeze with your mouth open, and to avoid flying and strenuous exercise. Taking the medication your dentist prescribes regularly supports healing.
How long does a bone graft take to heal?
In most cases it takes 3 to 6 months for the graft to turn into bone. The time depends on the amount used, the area and how quickly the person heals.
Does every implant need a bone graft?
No, if there is enough bone, the implant can be placed without a graft. Whether one is needed is decided after an examination and imaging.
