oral surgeon performing a bone graft

Bone Grafting

Missing teeth can cause jawbone deterioration, leading to further tooth loss and a sunken facial appearance.  Bone grafting rebuilds the jaw, allowing patients to qualify for dental implant placement. Dr. Mike Meek and Dr. David Tasch coordinate care with top oral surgeons in Austin, TX, for bone grafting. 

What Is Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that uses natural tissue (allograft) or synthetic bone material to rebuild lost tissue in the jaw. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone loses the stimulation the tooth roots once provided, and bone loss can occur. As the jawbone begins to shrink, facial tissues, like the lips and cheeks, can take on a sunken appearance. Jawbone atrophy can also cause further tooth loss if you have remaining natural teeth.

Dental implants can halt jaw atrophy. However, as the jawbone shrinks, there is often insufficient tissue to support implants. A surgical bone graft rebuilds the lost tissue and creates a solid foundation to support implants and custom restorations. 

dentist examining an x-ray of the jawbone

When Is Bone Grafting Necessary?

Inadequate bone density is the primary reason patients require bone grafting, as implants need sufficient bone to graft to. Patients who have suffered from tooth loss for an extended amount of time are more likely to need a bone graft. Bone loss occurs even if the patient replaces missing teeth with a traditional dental bridge or denture, since these restorations only replace the visible portion of the teeth, not the tooth roots.

Patients who must undergo tooth extraction prior to dental implant surgery may also need a bone graft. The bone graft material preserves the tooth socket and prevents bone loss. 

Hear Why Austin Loves 38th Street Dental

1

Andrew Johnston

Austin, TX

2023

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They’re the best. I have had such bad experiences with dentistry for a variety of reasons at other places. But at 38th St Dental Im always happy with how expert, respectful the team is. Above all, every single person is professional, and focused on high quality. I always leave happy and confident with a super treatment and being treated super to boot. Can’t believe I’m saying it but I’m not scared of the dentist anymore thanks to y’all!!

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Tomas Rodriguez

Austin, TX

2023

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Just a wonderful place. Dental care usually scares me but 38th Street Dental is a nice and friendly place with staff that works hard in being open and honest about dental care. They are upfront about the cost and try to work with you. I highly recommend them.

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​See How Bone Grafting Is Performed
 

Grafted tissue will be placed directly in the jawbone. The tissue becomes part of your anatomy during the healing process, and the end result is a solid foundation for dental implants to anchor in.

Bone Graft Treatment Timeline

Adequate bone tissue improves dental implant success. After bone grafting, patients can enjoy a lifetime of permanent and stable restorations supported by dental implants.
Adequate bone tissue improves dental implant success. After bone grafting, patients can enjoy a lifetime of permanent and stable restorations supported by dental implants.

Consultation

You will first meet with one of our dentists at our dental office in Austin, TX. Your dentist will examine your mouth and possibly perform X-rays to determine if bone grafting is right for you. They will then refer you to a trusted oral surgeon in the area for your bone grafting surgery and coordinate care for implant placement once you have healed. 

Bone Graft

Depending on your needs, bone will be taken from another area of your body or from a donor. Your surgeon can also use synthetic graft material. The surgeon will then create a small opening where the new bone will be placed. 

Sutures

Once the graft is secured and the incision is closed, a biocompatible membrane is placed over the area to prevent bacteria from entering. 

Healing

Over the next three to six months, the graft will fuse to the existing bone. Once this process is complete, our Austin dentists can perform dental implant placement surgery to prevent further bone loss and restore your smile.

Have questions?

The team at 38th Street Dental

38th Street Dental

38th Street Dental in Austin, TX, utilizes the latest proven technology to provide you personalized dental care. Dr. Meek and Dr. Tasch are members of local and national dental associations, including:

  • The American Dental Association
  • The Texas Dental Association
  • The Academy of General Dentistry
  • The Capital Area Dental Society

To schedule an appointment, call us at (512) 458-6222 or contact us online today!

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