Replacing Bone For Dental Implants
Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease which impacts many adults every year. Once the disease has progressed to this stage, it can result in the loss of the bone that holds the teeth in place. In some cases, this results loose teeth which may even fall out completely. When there is a missing tooth, there is a lack of stimulation in the jaw which can result in it retracting or resorbing. Once bone loss takes place, the dental professional may suggest that the patient undergoes a bone graft procedure. It is common to use bone grafts to aid in the growth of new bone or in the replacement of bone destroyed from periodontitis or another issues.
Bone Loss and Gum Disease
When gum disease remains untreated or becomes worse with time, it can cause the loss of teeth and gum tissue. Severe gum disease can cause other issues including the loss of bone present in the jaw. Periodontitis is defined as a chronic bacterial infection and impacts millions of adults each year. The infection specifically affects the bone and gums which serve the important task of supporting the teeth. When patients do not practice good oral hygiene, bacteria in the dental plaque is able to thrive. This can cause inflammation, sensitivity, and even bleeding of the gums. It the earliest phase of gum disease, it is referred to as gingivitis. With gingivitis, it is common for the gums to be swollen and easily bleed.
Periodontitis develops slowly over time when bacteria and toxins infect the gums. In addition, the bacteria can invade under the gum line, infecting the tissue below the teeth. Once this severe stage of gum disease is reached, the infection can destroy bone and tissues used to secure the teeth in place. When left untreated, the infection and destruction from periodontitis will continue until the teeth become loose and fall out from the lack of necessary support. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss for adults. Fortunately there are periodontal surgical procedures which can aid in reversing the effects of periodontitis. Procedures such as bone grafts can help to replace bone which has been lost and aid in supporting implants, when needed.
The main symptoms related to gum disease are summarized below:
- Bad breath which is persistent or worsens
- Foul taste in the mouth
- Loose teeth
- Pain and discomfort in the mouth
- Sensitive teeth
- Swollen gums which may bleed easily
Bone Grafts
When these is significant bone loss, the periodontist may need to place a bone graft to aid in the regeneration of bone required to support the teeth. When a bone graft is performed, the periodontist folds back the effected portion of the gums. Infected gum tissue, bacteria covered calculus, and rough surfaces of the tooth will then be cleaned and removed. The bone graft material will then be strategically placed. Bone graft material is designed to prompt the body form new bone. It is common to use bone grafts for repairing damage from gum disease. Bone grafts can also help improve the ability for a patient to maintain their natural teeth.
Once tooth loss has occurred, the dentist may suggest the use of a dental implant for replacement. The dental implant procedure is quite involves and includes surgery. During the first phase of the process, a metal post or implant is inserted into the jawbone. The implant will be the artificial root of the prosthetic tooth. The bone will naturally fuse to the implant over time. Because of this, the patient is required to have strong and sufficient bone needed to support the implant and serve as a secure base.
When the patient lacks a sufficient amount of bone, a bone graft will typically be performed before continuing the implant process. With a bone graft, the dental professional will remove a small piece of bone from another area of the jaw or another area of the body. Bone from the hip is often used for this. The piece of bone is then moved to the new area of the jawbone. Artificial bone can also be used in some cases. Before the dental implant process can begin, the bone must be completely healed. This process takes several months on average. The body will eventually grow new bone which will replace the transplanted bone or graft material. Some cases require the use of minor bone grafting. When this occurs, it can often be completed simultaneously with the implant placement surgery.
Numerous types of bone grafts are available for use. The type of bone graft will differ from the type of material used. The types of bone grafts are summarized below:
- Autograft: bone graft using bone extracted from the patient. Bone used for this type of graft is often transplanted from the back of the jaw or from the hip bone
- Allograft: bone graft which relies on bone from another human donor
- Alloplast: bone graft using a synthetic material that typically contains calcium, phosphorous and hydroxylapatite
- Xenograft: bone graft with bone sourced from an animal. It is common to use bone from a cow
Patients should discuss their bone grafting options with the dentist to understand which type of bone graft will best meet their needs.
Regeneration of Tissue
Along with bone grafts, mesh filter membranes and tissue-stimulating growth factor proteins may also be used to aid in the regrowth of bone and tissue. These types of materials prompt the body to regenerate bone or tissue in the desired location. For some patients, these materials will be used along with a bone graft. Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) is a procedure where a periodontist inserts a small piece of mesh between the gum and bone following after a bone graft. The goal of this procedure is that mesh will aid in preventing the gums from inadvertently growing into a location where new bone is intended. Modern dentistry continues to develop additional techniques and materials to enhance treating bone loss.
GTR and bone grafting are advanced procedures which are often used to treat the negative effects of gum disease. Experts are continuing to conduct studies regarding how these and other procedures may be able to assist patients with maintaining their natural teeth.
In order to avoid bone loss and preventing gum disease, it is critical for patients to have good oral hygiene. A good oral hygiene regimen includes gently brushing the teeth twice each day with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste containing fluoride. Patients should also floss their teeth daily and regularly visit the dentist for professional cleanings and exams.
Patients who have periodontal disease need to be extremely diligent in practicing good oral hygiene. They should also maintain a healthy diet and complete routine periodontal maintenance. When the recommendations of the dentist are followed and the patient maintains good oral health, they can better manage periodontal disease and increase their chances of maintaining the natural teeth.