Bone Grafting
Bone Grafting in Rancho Mirage
Rebuilding the Foundation for Dental Implants
Over time, the jawbone in areas where teeth are missing can shrink, weaken, or be reabsorbed by the body. When there is not enough healthy bone, it may be difficult or impossible to place dental implants securely.
Bone grafting is used to repair or rebuild areas of the jaw where bone volume is not sufficient. This can help create a stronger foundation for future dental implants and may also support facial structure, function, and overall oral health.
Who It Helps
Who May Need Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting may be recommended for patients who have:
- Missing teeth for an extended period of time
- Bone loss after tooth extraction
- Gum disease-related bone loss
- Jawbone injury or trauma
- A thin or narrow jaw ridge
- Bone defects caused by pathology or previous surgery
- Not enough bone to support dental implants
A consultation and imaging help determine whether bone grafting is needed before or during implant treatment.
Types of Bone Grafting
Bone Grafting Procedures We May Recommend
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Major and Minor Bone Grafting
Bone grafting can repair implant sites with inadequate bone structure due to previous extractions, gum disease, or injuries. Depending on the case, grafting material may come from a tissue bank, synthetic material, or the patient's own bone.
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Sinus Lift
A sinus lift, also called sinus augmentation, may be recommended when there is not enough bone in the upper back jaw for dental implant placement. The sinus membrane is gently lifted, and grafting material is placed to create more bone support.
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Ridge Expansion
When the jaw ridge is too thin for a dental implant, ridge expansion may be used to increase the width or shape of the bone so an implant can be placed more securely.
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Nerve Repositioning
In select lower jaw cases, nerve repositioning may be considered when the nerve location limits implant placement. This is a more advanced procedure and is only recommended when appropriate after careful evaluation.
What to Expect
The Bone Grafting Process
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Consultation and Imaging
Your visit begins with an evaluation of your oral health, jawbone structure, medical history, and implant goals.
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Treatment Planning
Our team reviews the amount and quality of available bone and determines whether grafting is needed before, during, or instead of implant placement.
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Bone Graft Procedure
Grafting material is placed in the area where bone needs to be rebuilt. In some cases, special membranes may be used to protect the graft and support regeneration.
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Healing and Follow-Up
The graft needs time to heal and integrate with the existing bone. Once the area is stable, the next phase of treatment, such as dental implant placement, can be planned.
Sinus augmentation and implant placement can sometimes be completed together when enough bone is available. If there is not enough bone, the graft may need to heal for several months before implants are placed.
Related Services
Related Oral Surgery Services
Get Started
Find Out If Bone Grafting Is Needed for Your Treatment
If you are considering dental implants or have been told that you do not have enough bone for implant placement, Desert Maxillofacial Center can help. Our team will evaluate your jawbone structure and explain whether bone grafting may be part of your treatment plan.