A surgical procedure that involves placement of the bone graft material on a deficient space which is then covered with a membrane barrier and held in place with sutures.
Tooth extraction, bone loss, and use of removable appliances for a long period often lead to a decrease in bone volume which makes it impossible to position dental implants in such a way that they can optimally support a dental prosthesis.
Alveolar bone defects/deficiencies can be prevented and overcome by the surgical placement of the bone graft.
Bone has a unique capacity to regenerate itself completely. Bone graft materials are used to facilitate bone formation within a given space by occupying that space and allowing bone growth to take place. They help maintain space under a barrier membrane for bone formation to occur.
Restoration of bone ridge contour in the area of a missing tooth
Correction/elimination of ridge defects
Reduce postoperative infection, enhancing bone and soft tissue healing
Prepare alveolar bone ridge for the placement of implants and other dental prosthesis (crowns, bridges, dentures)
The procedure usually takes 1-2 hours with an initial recovery period of two weeks. Natural bone regenerates for 3-6 months, replacing the bone graft material completely before a dental implant is placed.