For those of our patients who suffer from periodontal (gum) disease or those who have experienced moderate to severe tooth bone loss, Doctors Bauer, Lawrenz, and Stark may suggest you undergo a procedure called a bone graft, which can help replace the bone destroyed by periodontitis, an advanced gum disease that is known to not only damage the gum tissue, but also the underlying bone which supports the teeth.
Doctors Bauer, Lawrenz, and Stark may recommend you undergo a bone graft for reasons other than the presence of periodontal disease or tooth loss. These reasons include:
- Treating fractures
- Reconstructing chipped, broken, or shattered bones
- Placing of a dental implant
- Filling a gap in bones affected by cysts or tumors
- Shrinkage or loss of bone due to trauma
- Dentures that don’t fit properly
Bone grafting includes folding back part of the gum and cleaning out harmful bacteria that is making your gum disease worse. At that point, Doctors Bauer, Lawrenz, and Stark will insert the bone graft, which will help spur bone growth, bridge a gap in a bone, and aid in healing. Bone grafts can repair damage from gum disease and boost the chances that you can keep your teeth for a lifetime. In addition to a bone graft, Doctors Bauer, Lawrenz, and Stark may suggest a procedure called guided tissue regeneration, an advanced method used not only to help fight gum disease, but also to replace damaged or destroyed bone and tissue.
For more information on bone grafts, or to find out if you are a candidate for a bone graft, we invite you to give us a call at Champlin Family Dental or set up an appointment at our convenient Champlin, MN office. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have!