Answers to Common Bone Grafting Questions

Bone grafting is a precise, effective procedure that can restore strength to a weakened area and halt bone recession. In most cases, your surgeon will perform this treatment to prepare your jaw for dental implants placement. However, bone grafting can also be an effective way to improve jaw strength after injuries or other concerns. Since it is a specialized procedure, many patients have a number of bone grafting questions. At our Lincoln, NE, practice, Dr. Andrew R. Glenn provides compassionate and personalized care, and he is always happy to address any concerns you might have. In addition to providing answers to some common bone grafting questions, you can also schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Glenn to learn more.

Why Is Bone Grafting Performed?

After losing teeth, patients can experience reduced blood flow to their jawbones. Unfortunately, this jaw recession can greatly affect the success rate of a dental implants treatment. By undergoing a bone grafting procedure, Dr. Glenn can restore lost volume and create a strong foundation for the titanium posts.

Other situations in which you may benefit from bone grafting include:

• Before denture fabrication: Dr. Glenn can build up bone tissue to help ensure a better fit for a denture.
• After trauma: If you have sustained a blow to the face, a knocked out tooth, or a similar accident, bone grafting can restore strength to damaged bone tissue.
• Following treatment for a cyst or tumor: To remove a cyst or tumor, Dr. Glenn may also have to remove some of the surrounding bone, and he can restore strength to this area with bone grafting.

How Much Does Bone Grafting Cost?

The cost of a bone grafting procedure varies from patient to patient, as more complex cases will involve higher prices. However, Dr. Glenn works hard to make his treatments affordable, and he can often tailor your procedure to fit your budget. In addition, we also offer a variety of financing options, including CareCredit℠.

How Much Discomfort Is Involved?

Each patient’s bone grafting procedure is unique. Typically, however, you will experience minimal discomfort following your surgery. If you require a more complex procedure, your recovery should be comparable to healing after impacted molar extraction.

What Are the Different Types of Bone Grafting?

Dr. Glenn performs four types of bone grafting:

• Particulate grafts: During this procedure, Dr. Glenn will place small particles of bone around the implant site. In some cases, he can perform particulate grafts at the same time as implants surgery.
• Block grafts: A block graft may be more appropriate if you have significant bone recession or if you are going to receive multiple implants. During this procedure, Dr. Glenn will place a larger portion of bone tissue before anchoring it in place. As the area heals, this new tissue will fuse with your jaw.
• Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs): Rather than placing bone tissue, Dr. Glenn can treat the recessed area with BMPs, and these natural proteins help to stimulate bone growth.
• Sinus lifts: If you will be receiving implants in your upper jaw, Dr. can use this procedure to raise your sinus membrane before placing a portion of bone tissue. A sinus lift can not only strengthen your bone, it will also create room for your implants.

How Experienced is Dr. Glenn?

Dr. Glenn has been performing bone grafting nearly every day for more than 10 years. He also frequently performed bone grafting procedures while completing his medical residency. He takes a personalized approach to treatment, and he will keep you fully informed about your health and surgical options so that you can choose the treatment that is most appropriate for your goals and lifestyle.

What Kind of Technology is Involved?

Dr. Glenn is dedicated to using the latest technology to improve all aspects of your care. Our advanced imaging tools are especially important when planning and executing bone grafting procedures. Cone beam computerized tomography (CT) scans will create a three-dimensional image of your jaw and skull. Using this digital model, Dr. Glenn can develop a highly precise treatment plan to meet your needs.

Contact Us to Learn More

Dr. Glenn can provide detailed answers to all of your questions during a personal consultation. To schedule an appointment, contact our practice today.