Qualifying for Dental Implants with Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is sometimes required when you do not have sufficient bone tissue to ensure successful osseointegration of dental implants. In order to create the permanent and stable foundation for which dental implants are heralded, patients must have adequate jawbone tissue to support them. A bone grafting procedure can supplement existing jawbone tissue, allowing patients who might otherwise be disqualified from the procedure to restore their candidacy for dental implants. Bone grafting requires a few months of recovery; however, Dr. Stephen J. Malki can perform both bone grafting and dental implant surgeries at our River Edge, NJ, office for added convenience.

When is Bone Grafting Necessary?

Bone grafting is often a necessary procedure for patients to qualify for dental implants. After losing one or more teeth, the jawbone begins to deteriorate. Patients who do not replace those teeth with implants right away are subject to a significant loss of tissue in the bone within the first year. The longer patients go without replacing their missing teeth, the more likely they are to need a preliminary procedure such as bone grafting or a sinus lift.

By replacing the tooth roots, dental implants can successfully fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. This fusion creates the strong and stable foundation that makes dental implants so successful.

A bone grafting procedure can supplement existing jawbone tissue, allowing patients who might otherwise be disqualified from the procedure to restore their candidacy for dental implants.

What can I Expect during the Procedure?

Dr. Malki can perform all bone grafting procedures in our office. A local anesthetic will numb the treatment area so you will not feel any pain. Bone grafts may consist of bone taken from another part of your own body, from a donor, or made from synthetic materials.

After determining the locations in need of a graft, Dr. Malki can create an incision in your gums. The graft is then placed in the jawbone, where it will be held in place with a protective membrane that also helps ensure proper healing. After the graft is in place, he will close your incision with sutures.

Recovery after a bone graft procedure takes approximately three to six months. Dr. Malki will closely monitor you during this time to ensure the graft integrates with the existing tissues. Once he is satisfied that the bone graft is fully integrated, he can approve you for dental implant surgery.

An illustration of the bone grafting procedure
Bone grafts can help supplement your existing jawbone tissue and create a stable base for your dental implants. 

Implant Options After Bone Grafting

Once you have had healed from bone grafting, Dr. Malki can discuss your implant options. If you are missing one tooth, you may simply need a single implant and a crown. If you are missing several teeth, however, you may instead require a dental bridge. You could need as few as two implants to support a bridge.

Patients missing all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw will need an implant-supported denture. Just four to six implants can support a full denture and restore form and function to your smile. Because of the bone grafting, your implants will have the support they need to provide you with lasting restorations.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Malki

If you have been told you need a bone graft to qualify for dental implants, call our office at (201) 646-0800 or contact Malki Dental online to schedule a consultation. After a thorough examination, Dr. Malki can determine whether a bone graft or another procedure, such as a sinus lift, could help restore your candidacy for dental implants. 

Dr. Malki

Malki Dental

Dr. Stephen Malki is a dentist who believes a smile is one of the most important means of expression. His prestigious distinctions in his field include:

  • Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantologists (ABOI)
  • Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID)
  • Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI)
  • Master of the Misch International Implant Institute
  • Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry

To book your consultation, please send us a message online or call us today at (201) 646-0800.

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"Dr. Stephen J. Malki is very gentle and caring. He makes you feel comfortable and does everything he can to ensure that you have a pleasant experience. As soon as you meet him you can see how much he cares for his patients."

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