Bone Grafts Specialist
Waco Periodontics & Dental Implants
Harrison L. Parks, DDS
Periodontics & Dental Implants located in Waco, TX
Dental implants are the most effective way to replace missing teeth because they restore both your aesthetic appearance and function. But, to get dental implants you first need to have strong and healthy bone to support them. If you lack that bone density, you can still get dental implants with the help of bone grafts. You can count on Harrison Parks, DDS, MS, at Waco Periodontics & Dental Implants in Waco, Texas, for bone grafts done using state-of-the-art technology and methods. Book an appointment online or by phone today.
Bone Grafts
What is a bone graft?
A bone graft is a way to replace bone that you've lost due to periodontal disease or other causes. There are several different kinds of bone grafts.
Autogenous
An autogenous bone graft is one in which you're the donor. The bone for your graft is removed from another part of your body where you've got extra. Common areas for this bone donation include the pelvis, chin, or the jaw under your third molar. If a large amount of bone is needed for the graft, it might be harvested from the hip or the shin instead.
Allograft
An allograft uses artificial bone, which is made to be biocompatible so your body integrates it well. The allograft material is made in a laboratory.
Xenograft
In a xenograft, the donor bone comes from bovine sources. Only bovine bone that's safe for the human body is used for this type of procedure.
The type of material used in your bone graft depends on your needs and circumstances. Dr. Parks will help you make the best choice.
When do I need a bone graft?
There are a few reasons that you might need a bone graft. The most common reason is dental implant preparation (adding density) through procedures like sinus lift. Bone grafts may also be done to stop periodontitis from moving further into your bones or even to correct jaw deformities through a ridge augmentation.
What should I expect during a bone graft procedure?
Dr. Parks makes sure that you're completely comfortable during your bone graft procedure. First, you'll get local anesthesia to numb the entire treatment area. Dr. Parks prepares the material for implantation, and then creates a tiny incision in the area where you need the bone and then precisely places it.
Depending on your needs, Dr. Parks may also place a thin membrane, a matrix protein product, or platelet-rich plasma at the bone insertion site to help the new bone integrate with your existing bone.
Finally, Dr. Parks creates small sutures to close the wound. Afterward, you'll see Dr. Parks in about 10 days so he can check the bone regeneration process. If you need dental implants, you can review the treatment plan going forward with Dr. Parks at that time.
Use the online scheduler or call Waco Periodontics & Dental Implants to make your bone graft appointment today.