Periodontal Diseases

Bone Grafts

Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with gum disease, as well as missing teeth, dissolves or is reabsorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone. In some situations we now have the ability to grow bone where it has been lost around teeth. It also gives us a chance to more effectively restore esthetic appearance and functionality. New biologically active gels and growth factors help stimulate and enhance bone growth so that we can help your body re-grow bone that is lost. In 2006, Gem 21 was introduced. It is a potent growth factor for bone that has helped us save certain teeth that would otherwise have been lost.

In situations where significant bone loss has occurred patients may not be candidates for placement of dental implants unless the bone is regained. A variety of bone building techniques are used to regain this bone depending on the location and the severity of the bone loss. The various techniques may include:

• Particulate grafts
• Block grafts
• Sinus lift procedures
• Platelet rich plasma
• Gem 21