Bone Grafting
With tooth loss, patients may also experience bone loss — making it harder to qualify for implants.
Even if you're not eligible for dental implants now, you can become a candidate with bone grafting from our Amarillo, TX, dentists.
Curious about the possibilities? Visit Drs. Tyler L. Pendergrass and Eric S. Wilkie at Pendergrass & Wilkie Dentistry for a bone graft consultation.
Why Would I Need a Bone Graft?
To Prevent Changes in Face Shape
After losing a tooth and the accompanying bone, patients may notice that their facial features begin to cave in and shrink. This can create an aged appearance. A graft can help prevent these changes.
To Replenish Lost Bone Tissue
Our tooth roots may be hidden, but their purpose is well known. In addition to keeping our teeth firmly anchored in our jaw, they stimulate our bone tissue — bone that can deteriorate over time with tooth loss.
To Become Eligible for Implants
We can place dental implants in your jawbone to anchor custom restorations, like crowns, dentures, and bridges. To make the procedure possible, though, you'll first need enough healthy bone tissue to support the implant.
Understanding the Main Types of Graft Surgery
The type of grafting you need will depend on several factors, such as if you've lost bone in your upper jaw or lower jaw. Two of the most common graft procedures are:
Bone Grafting
With bone grafting, our dentists will conduct a safe surgery to augment your existing bone with new tissue grafts. Some patients may receive allografts during the procedure, which are bone donated by another person, while others may receive an autograft, which is composed of their own bone tissue.
Sinus Lift
For bone loss in your sinus area, which spans across top molars, you may need a bone graft called a sinus lift. This graft specifically elevates the floor of your sinus. Like with bone grafting, the procedure can employ an allograft or an autograft to supplement your tissue.
Stressed About Seeking Treatment? Let Our Amarillo, TX, Patients Put You at Ease
Shelby Babcock
2023
Very friendly staff! Called and asked if they had emergency walk-ins available and I was able to come in that moment. Got there and was greeted with friendly faces. Didn't even finish filling out papers and was called back and that was an amazing experience as well. I was able to get in and out in under an hour. And when I was leaving they all told me to have a great day with smiles on their faces! I will definitely be referring them to any who needs dental care!
View On Google
Bobbie Allen
2023
My experience was great. I give them higher than a five star.
They go above and beyond to make sure you are comfortable and they always ask if you are okay.
Very friendly and caring. I would recommend to other people.
What Happens After a Bone Graft?
First, you'll need to recover from your bone graft procedure over a period of months.
When you are ready, you can visit our Amarillo dentists for your implant placement. During the next three to six months, those dental implants will fuse with your new bone and your gums.
In the meantime, we may be able to offer a temporary restoration before we can attach your abutments and permanent restoration. Then, all you have to do is enjoy your strong, beautiful new smile.
