BONE GRAFTING

Bone loss occurs due to missing teeth, periodontal disease or trauma. If there is insufficient bone to provide stability for an implant, then you will need a bone graft before an implant can be placed. Dr. Jenkins, as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, specializes in the placement of bone grafts. He uses the most advanced techniques in order to provide you with optimal esthetics and function.

Bone can come from a variety of sources. An “autograft” is your own bone, which is harvested from your jaw, hip, tibia, or cranium. An “allograft” is cadaveric bone, which is treated in order to make it safe to implant in your jaws. A “xenograft” is bone harvested from an animal (usually bovine), which is also treated to make it safe to implant in your jaws. Using an allograft or xenograft eliminates the need for harvesting your own bone. Additionally, there are synthetic bone grafts which are made in a laboratory. Another option is growth factors, such as BMP-2, that are also synthetic, that can be placed in your jaw in order to stimulate your jaw to build its own bone. Every patient and situation is different and may require a different type, or combination of bone grafts. Dr. Jenkins will discuss with you the best option to fit your situation.

How long after bone grafting can I get my dental implant?

In situations where there is adequate bone for stabilization, the implant can be placed at the same time as the bone graft. If the implant is not able to be placed at the time of the bone graft, then the grafted bone must be allowed to fuse with the native bone for 6-9 months, before an implant can be placed. After your bone grafting procedure, Dr. Jenkins will periodically evaluate the bone in order to determine the correct time to place the implant.

What about sinus bone grafts?

In some patients the maxillary sinus is too close to the planned implant site, and it needs to be bone grafted. Dr. Jenkins uses specialized instruments to gently lift your sinus membrane up, and place bone beneath it, in order to successfully place an implant.

What anesthesia is used?

A bone graft can be placed under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or General Anesthesia. Dr. Jenkins is a specialist in providing anesthesia in his office. If you choose to be sedated for the procedure, he will gently drift you off to sleep and you will awake comfortably with the procedure completed.

Do I need a bone graft?

If you have any bone loss, you may need a bone graft to improve the implant function and esthetics. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Jenkins to discuss if a bone graft is right for you.

Our office is located in Provo. We also service the following cities and their surrounding areas:

• Orem, UT
• Pleasant Grove, UT
• Provo, UT
• Springville, UT