Bone Grafting Bone grafting is one of the most frequently performed oral surgeries in the dental field. It is used to treat a variety of oral cavity conditions and yields great results. The most common treatments involve temporomandibular joint problems. This is also known as the TMJ joint, which is where the jaw joins to the skull. When patients have pain or other symptoms associated with the TMJ, they are said to be suffering from TMD (temporomandibular disorder).While some problems with the temporomandibular joint may result from trauma, such as an automobile accident or sports injury, others can develop due to underlying conditions that affect the joint. Common symptoms may include difficulty chewing without pain, discomfort when swallowing, or even challenges with speaking clearly. In certain cases, a bone graft may be used to restore the structure of the TMJ. This procedure can help relieve symptoms and improve normal jaw function. Patients having trouble with their TMJ or who need answers about possible treatments should come into our Stonewall Dental Associates office. We would be glad to help you with any oral cavity problems you may be having. Bone Graft DescriptionA bone graft is a section of tissue which is taken from one location on the patient's body and placed in another compromised area of the body, which stimulates healing and improved functionality. It can add much-needed bone mass to either the upper or the lower jaw, addressing many of the symptoms brought on by tooth decay or periodontal disease. Why is this so important? For many restorative dental procedures, such as dental implants, a minimum amount of bone mass is required. Without the appropriate amount of bone mass, the patient is unable to have them placed. In some cases, the patient will not have an appropriate amount of healthy tissue to be used and a donor will need to be found. If a donor cannot be found with a matching tissue type, then synthetic grafts can be used. What are the Different Types of Grafts?The process of placing a graft is the same regardless of what type is used. For most applications, there are two types of grafts. These are the autograft and the allograft. The autograft is the most widely used and involves harvesting the bone tissue from the patient. Typically, the site of the harvested material is the hip or the pelvic bone. Allografts are also quite common, but not utilized as often as autografts are. These take the harvested tissue from a cadaver rather than the patient or another live donor. The tissue is stored at a tissue bank and taken out when needed. When is a Bone Graft Needed?Patients suffering from pain at the TMJ site or who have problems speaking or chewing should consider getting a bone graft. Also, patients who cannot completely open or close their mouths should also consider looking into a bone graft as an option. Ridge Augmentation and Socket PreservationAnother common use of bone grafting is ridge augmentation, which rebuilds or preserves the natural shape of the jawbone after tooth loss or extraction. When a tooth is removed, the bone around it can shrink over time. This can make it harder to place a dental implant later or affect the shape of the smile. To prevent this, your dentist may place a small amount of bone graft material into the socket immediately after a tooth extraction; a process called socket preservation. This encourages healthy bone growth, helps maintain the natural ridge line, and provides a strong foundation for future dental restorations. Contact Stonewall Dental Associates to find out more. We can also be reached by phone at (571) 454-9025 to get your appointment scheduled. |
Phone(571) 454-9025 HoursMon 8:00am - 5:00pm Tue 8:00am - 6:00pm Wed 8:00am - 5:00pm Thu 8:00am - 5:00pm Friday: 8:00am - 1:00pm Saturday: Call for Appointment 
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