Missing teeth can affect more than your smile. Over time, the jawbone where a tooth once stood can begin to shrink. This may leave too little bone to support a dental implant.
For some older adults, bone grafts in Greater New York can rebuild lost bone and help make implant treatment possible.
Call to make an appointment at either of our locations: 212-918-1859 in New York or 201-877-5965 in Hoboken!
The bigger picture: Low bone levels may delay implant treatment, but they do not always rule it out. A bone graft may help rebuild the area so an implant has a stronger place to anchor.
What Causes Bone Loss in the Jaw?
Your jawbone needs regular stimulation to stay healthy. Your natural tooth roots provide that stimulation each time you bite and chew.
After a tooth is lost, that stimulation disappears. The bone in the empty area may slowly shrink. The longer a tooth has been missing, the more bone loss may occur.
Bone loss can also be linked to:
- Gum disease
- Long-term denture use
- A past tooth infection
- Dental injuries
- Natural changes that come with aging
Your oral surgeon can use dental imaging to measure the bone and see whether it can support an implant.
What Is a Dental Bone Graft?
Think of a bone graft as a way to build a stronger foundation.
During the procedure, grafting material is placed in an area where bone has been lost. This material gives your body a framework for building new bone tissue.
Several types of material can be used to help rebuild the jaw. Your oral surgeon will choose an option based on the location of the bone loss and the amount of support needed.
What happens next: Your body gradually forms new bone around the graft as the area heals. This process can take several months. After healing, your surgeon can check the jaw to see if it is strong enough to hold a dental implant.
Can Bone Grafting Help You Get Implants?
In many cases, yes. If bone loss is the main reason you cannot receive an implant, bone grafts in Greater New York may help create enough support for one.
Your treatment plan will match your jaw: Bone loss can look different from one patient to another. If only a small amount of bone is missing, grafting may be limited to that spot. More widespread bone loss can call for additional steps to create enough support.
For implants near the back of the upper jaw, your oral surgeon may recommend a sinus lift. This procedure helps increase the amount of bone available in that area.
What Should Seniors Expect During Recovery?
Healing takes time, but your care team will guide you through it.
You may have some swelling, soreness, or tenderness after the procedure. Your oral surgeon will give you instructions for eating, cleaning your mouth, and caring for the graft site.
Follow these directions closely. Avoid disturbing the area while it heals and attend your follow-up visits.
Your overall health matters, too. Tell your oral surgeon about your medications and medical conditions before treatment. This information helps your surgeon plan your care safely.
Are Dental Implants Still an Option?
Do not let bone loss answer that question for you.
Age alone does not determine whether you can receive dental implants. Your health, bone condition, and treatment needs all play a role.
For seniors who have been told they lack enough jawbone, bone grafts in Greater New York may provide another path toward stable replacement teeth.
For an appointment with one of our oral surgeons, call 212-918-1859 in New York or 201-877-5965 in Hoboken. Learn whether bone grafting could help prepare your smile for dental implants.