Bone Grafting for Dental Implants
Do I Have Enough Bone?
After tooth extraction, if the walls of the socket are very thick, they will usually fill naturally with bone in two to three months. However, when the walls of your socket are very thin (such as in your upper and lower front teeth), this type of healing will not be as predictable. In these situations, a bone graft is often placed at the time of tooth extraction to help your body fill in the empty socket with bone. This step will maintain the width and volume of bone you will need for implant placement several months later.
1. Inadequate Bone
2. Graft Material Placed
3. Implants Placed
There may be inadequate bone for implant placement if your tooth was removed many years ago and your bony ridge is extremely thin. In this case, a bone graft can be placed next to the thin bone and allowed to heal for up to six months. After the graft has fused to your pre-existing bone, the ridge will be re-entered and the implant placed. Bone grafting is usually a relatively comfortable office procedure. Many different bone-grafting materials are available, including your own bone.
1. Inadequate Bone
2. Graft Material and Implant Placed
You may also need bone grafting if the sinus cavities in your upper jaw are very large, or very low, and extend into the tooth-bearing areas. This often occurs when teeth in the back of a person’s upper jaw have been removed many years before, and the amount of bone available for implant placement is limited. A “sinus grafting procedure” is then required. Most often, it is performed in the office with local anesthesia and perhaps sedation. During this procedure, the membrane that lines the sinus will be located and elevated. Bone will then be added to restore the bone height and ensure that dental implants of an adequate length can be placed. This procedure often can be performed at the time of implant placement.
Krueger & Lenox Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Patient Review By Jerry P
When I returned for my second visit, it was like approaching friends I had not seen for a couple months. No anxiety over the procedure. My first surgery recovery was so mild I went to work around noon the next day. My second surgery results were similar. No surprises. I have one small procedure to go and have no reservations about it. Overall, this experience on a one to ten scale was a ten. I must also say that the staff is absolutely excellent in their competency, social skills, and outright friendliness. This office is an example of what all Doctor Offices should be like. Thank you for being a great part of our community.
- Jerry P
Patient Review By Ana A P
Excellent. The best Dr in Town.
- Ana A P
Patient Review By James M
I highly recommend Dr. Krueger as an oral surgeon.
- James M
Patient Review By Melissa F
I love how Dr. Krueger talks to me while he is working always reassuring me that Im doing good Im an extremely nervous person with shots and he helps quite a bit by just doing something as simple as that. Thank you Dr. Krueger....You're the Best!
- Melissa F
Patient Review By Perry P
Very satisfied with procedure results. Minimal discomfort. Will gladly recommend to friends.
- Perry P
Patient Review By Mark G
Having Dr. Krueger call me personally several hours after my extraction and implant placement was more than I expected. It was a personal touch that I wont forget and a business practice that other medical professionals would be wise to use as well. Dr. Krueger and his staff made a very uncomfortable situation very easy for me. They were comforting and supportive during my procedure and though my anxiety level was very high,they made every effort to encourage me and keep me comfortable. Should the need arise for Dr. Kreugers services again, I wouldn't hesitate to see him again.He and his staff are true professionals and a credit to their practice..
- Mark G
Patient Review By Maryann (Mimi) L
Ditto of what I wrote in the "Additional Comments" above.
- Maryann (Mimi) L
Patient Review By Kerry S
My procedure went off without a hitch .... and am thrilled with the end result. Dr.Krueger & his staff were incredibly caring! I recommend them HIGHLY!
- Kerry S
Patient Review By Kerry S
My procedure went off without a hitch .... and am thrilled with the end result. Dr.Krueger & his staff were incredibly caring! I recommend them HIGHLY!
- Kerry S
Patient Review By Delona F.
The whole procedure was much easier than I had imagined. I was pleased with all staff and Dr. Krueger...Getting flowers delivered to my home the day of my implant was certainly a nice surprise and totally unexpected. Thankyou!!
- Delona F.