Bone Loss And Dental Implants

Enabling Epsom patients with degraded bone structure to proceed with dental implants.

Here at our Epsom dental practice, in the majority of cases, we can place a dental implant without the patient needing any precursory treatment. In some cases though, bone loss can occur in the area of a missing tooth, leading to insufficient bone to hold an implant securely in place.

When this happens, a procedure known as a bone graft, or bone augmentation, can take place to build up the underlying jaw structure so that an implant can be placed successfully.

Bone loss

Bone loss can occur for a number of reasons. Two of the most common are because of advanced gum disease or simply because a tooth has been missing for a long time.

Advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis, not only affects the gums but also gradually erodes the bone in the jaw. It is for this reason that teeth can be lost as the bone has insufficient density to secure a tooth effectively. Even when the bone has been rebuilt and an implant placed, diligent gum gum care is very important as gum disease and peri-implantitis remain a threat. Naturally, any diagnosis of gum disease will need treatment before a bone graft can take place.

When a tooth has been lost or extracted, bone loss will follow. In essence, the brain signals that as a tooth is no longer there and the bone no longer has the role to play of holding the tooth securely in place. Consequently, the bone will gradually erode.

Bone graft

A strong and healthy bone structure is essential for a successful dental implant placement and therefore must be built up where it has degraded. This is done by performing a bone graft whereby bone will usually be harvested from the patient as this significantly reduces any risk of rejection by the body. The bone may be taken from a different area of the mouth or sometimes other areas like the hip.

Once the procedure has been completed, the new bone is left to bond with the existing bone for a period of time; usually around three months, or longer until it is deemed to be strong enough to place the implant.

With the use of modern implant techniques, there is every reason to believe that a implant placed into a bone grafted area will be successful. Naturally, good aftercare is important, ensuring that you brush and floss efficiently as well as keeping regular appointments with the hygienist at Clock Tower Dental Clinic.

If you have missing teeth, even where you suspect you have bone loss, why not contact our Epsom dentists to discuss a dental implant procedure to replace them? Please call us today on 01372 720136 and one of our friendly team members will be pleased to guide you through your options.