Questions? 386-672-9440
Accepting New Patients

Do I Need A Bone Graft To Treat My Tooth Loss?

When your periodontal (gum) disease and tooth loss result in the need for dental implants, it can become necessary to repair bone loss prior to implantation and replacement of missing teeth. This is typically necessary if your tooth has been missing for some time and resulted in bone loss. Luckily there are options available for replacing both the bone that was lost and your missing teeth.
Why Bone Grafts May Be Necessary
Losing a tooth can affect more than just your confidence. Without the presence of the tooth to stimulate the jawbone, you can lose bone mass which later results in more lost teeth. These teeth can be difficult to replace without the necessary bone structure to support implants. This is why it’s important to do what you can to address a lost tooth promptly, so that you can avoid the bone loss that will likely occur if left unattended.

What Are Your Options?
Periodontal disease is completely preventable, and easy to cure, when addressed in the early stages. However, when left untreated it inevitably leads to further problems, including tooth loss. Dental implants can be one of the best options for the replacement of missing teeth, but if bone loss has affected the bone that is necessary for successful implantation, your periodontist will likely need to perform some form of bone support regeneration or a bone graft.

The first step in the implant and bone grafting process will be to address your periodontal disease. Treating the affected gumline and existing teeth will ensure that your mouth is healthy enough to support the bone graft and implant procedures. Once this has been accomplished, you and your periodontist can work together to decide what grafting techniques and procedures are necessary in order to regenerate enough bone mass for the implants.

Every situation is different, so there’s no way to estimate the exact course of treatment that will be necessary in your case or the amount of time it will take for it to be completed. It’s important to go into your consultation with an open mind and the expectation that while it will take time, the end results will be worth it.

When facing a series of dental procedures, it can be tempting to just accept the state of your mouth as is. After all, a few missing teeth isn’t a big deal, right? Unfortunately, even one missing tooth can lead to bone loss, the loss of additional teeth, and the progression of whatever issues caused your tooth loss in the first place. Regardless of any aversions you may have to visiting the dentist, you shouldn’t ignore or put off these necessary procedures as the health of your mouth will only continue to deteriorate. Contact Dr. Raymond Kenzik in Ormond Beach today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey to a healthier smile.

Located in Beautiful Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach Periodontics and Implant Dentistry is conveniently located off of Nova Road in Ormond Beach, Florida. We help seniors, adults, and teenagers smile with confidence.