In order to get dental implants in Sioux Falls, SD, and elsewhere, the patient needs to have a certain amount of bone. This is because the titanium implant is placed in the bone, and it supports both the abutment and the faux tooth. Without sufficient bone, the implant is more likely to fail. Ironically, many patients who seek dental implants have had missing teeth for a while, which results in bone degeneration. In cases like this, the solution is to restore the bone in one way or another. Here are some options to treat inadequate bone for dental implants.

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting involves taking bone from another part of the patient’s body (autograft), a donor (allograft), animal sources (xenograft), or using synthetic materials (alloplast), and grafting it onto the jawbone. Over time, the grafted bone fuses with the existing bone through a process called osseointegration.

Sinus Lift

This procedure is used when additional bone is needed in the upper jaw, specifically near the molars and premolars. It involves lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material into the sinus, which is located above the teeth on either side of the nose.

Ridge Expansion

In cases where the jaw isn’t wide enough to support implants, a ridge expansion may be necessary. This involves a surgical procedure to split the jawbone and insert bone graft material into the newly created space. Over time, this area will heal and provide a wider ridge for implant placement.

Guided Bone and Tissue Regeneration

This technique involves placing a barrier membrane under the gum and over the bone defect. The membrane prevents soft tissue from entering the desired bone growth area, allowing bone to regenerate and adequately support dental implants.

Contact your Sioux Falls, SD dentist today to discuss full arch dental implants, implant-supported dentures, single tooth implants, and more. There are many treatment options available to help restore your beautiful smile.