What Is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a procedure designed to restore a jawbone that has deteriorated over time due to missing teeth, gum disease, or injury. At North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, bone grafting allows for the replacement or regeneration of bone where it is missing. This not only creates a solid foundation for dental implants of proper size but also restores functionality and improves the aesthetic appearance of the jaw and facial structure. Whether repairing small defects or performing major grafts using bone from the patient's own body, this advanced technique helps rebuild bone where it is needed most, ensuring long-term oral health and implant success. To learn more about bone grafting or to find out if it's right for you, schedule a consultation at one of our locations in Corinth, Tupelo, or Southaven, MS.
What Types of Bone Grafts Are There?
Bone grafting involves using various materials to restore or regenerate bone where it is needed, and there are several types of bone grafts to consider based on your specific needs. Each type offers unique advantages and considerations:
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Autogenous Bone Grafts (Autografts): These are made from your own bone, often harvested from areas like the chin, jaw, hip, or skull. Autografts contain live bone cells, promoting natural bone growth and eliminating the risk of rejection since the material comes from your body. However, they require a second procedure to harvest the bone, which may not be suitable for all patients.
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Allogenic Bone (Allografts): Sourced from cadaver bone and processed through freeze-drying, allografts do not produce new bone on their own. Instead, they act as a scaffold for your natural bone to grow over time. These grafts eliminate the need for a second procedure but may result in slower regeneration.
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Xenogenic Bone: Derived from non-living bone of another species, typically cows, xenogenic bone undergoes high-temperature processing to ensure safety and reduce the risk of rejection. Like allografts, xenografts serve as a framework for bone growth but may have less predictable outcomes compared to autografts.
What Are Bone Graft Substitutes?
Bone graft substitutes are synthetic or processed materials used as alternatives to natural bone for grafting procedures. These substitutes offer safe and effective options that eliminate the need for a second surgical site to harvest bone. Common types of bone graft substitutes include:
- Demineralized Bone Matrix (DBM)/Demineralized Freeze-Dried Bone Allograft (DFDBA): Processed allograft bone containing collagen, proteins, and growth factors, available in powder, putty, chips, or injectable gel form.
- Graft Composites: Combinations of bone graft materials and growth factors, such as collagen/ceramic composites, DBM with bone marrow cells, or collagen/ceramic/autograft blends, designed to mimic natural bone and promote growth.
- Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs): Naturally occurring proteins that regulate and encourage bone formation and healing.
How Is a Bone Graft Performed?
At North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, bone grafting is typically performed under sedation to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. One of our oral surgeons will first determine the type of graft needed. The treatment process may vary based on which graft option is chosen. Once the graft material is prepared, it is then placed in the deficient area to promote bone regeneration or provide a sturdy foundation for future dental implants. In some cases, a protective membrane is used to shield the graft and support healing. The area is then sutured, and over time, the graft integrates with the existing bone, strengthening the site for long-term stability. The entire procedure generally takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity and size of the graft.
North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates Reviews
The staff is excellent. Thank you!!
Absolutely wonderful. Great customer service as well.
My son’s experience getting his wisdom teeth out was fantastic! We went in for a consult and same day surgery. We received all the information needed to care for his teeth and understand his prescriptions. The surgery( to remove 4 teeth) was very quick! I will definitely be using them again for my other children.
Dr. Chrisman has been my oral surgeon for decades. Everyone in the office is great!
Great staff! Made my girl feel comfortable and included, they were very understanding and willing to explain things in depth! Thankful we were referred to them!
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What Are the Benefits of a Bone Graft?
A bone graft provides numerous advantages for restoring oral health and supporting future dental procedures, including:
- Rebuilds lost bone, creating a stable foundation for dental implants
- Prevents further bone loss and preserves facial structure
- Promotes new bone growth, enhancing oral stability and function
- Corrects bone deficiencies caused by injury, disease, or tooth loss
- Improves aesthetics by restoring the natural contours of the jaw
Rebuild the Jawbone
Bone grafting is a transformative procedure that can restore lost bone, improve the foundation for dental implants, and enhance both function and aesthetics. Whether you need a minor graft or a major restoration, the use of advanced bone graft materials and substitutes can help rebuild the jawbone, prevent further deterioration, and achieve long-lasting oral health. With a variety of options tailored to your specific needs, our skilled team at North Mississippi Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates is here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today in Tupelo, Southaven, or Corinth, MS, to schedule a consultation and learn how bone grafting can help you regain your smile.