Dental Implant Supplemental Procedures: Unlocking the Path to a Healthier Smile
For patients seeking to replace missing teeth, dental implants offer a secure and lifelike solution. However, in some cases, the jawbone or gum tissue may not be in the optimal condition to support an implant. This is where supplemental procedures come into play. These additional treatments are designed to address specific oral health concerns and prepare the mouth for the successful placement of dental implants.
At My Dentist In Plano, led by the experienced Plano, TX, implant dentist, Dr. Darren Dickson, we are proud to offer a range of supplemental procedures to our patients. By leveraging these techniques, we can often expand the pool of individuals who can benefit from the long-lasting and natural-looking results of dental implants. Learn how you may benefit from a supplemental dental implant procedure by calling our Collin County dental practice at (972) 378-9747.
What Are Supplemental Procedures?
Supplemental procedures refer to the additional steps that may be necessary to prepare the mouth for the placement of dental implants. These procedures are designed to address specific issues that can impact the success of dental implant surgery and the longevity of the implant, such as insufficient jawbone density, problems with the gum tissue, or other factors that may compromise the stability of the implant.
Some of the most common supplemental procedures we offer at My Dentist In Plano include:
- Bone Grafting
- Sinus Lifts
- Ridge Augmentation
The need for these supplemental procedures will be determined on a case-by-case basis through a thorough evaluation by Dr. Dickson, our skilled oral surgeon. We will carefully discuss the risks, benefits, and healing times of each procedure to ensure our patients make an informed decision about their treatment.
It’s important to note that not all patients will require a supplemental dental implant procedure. In some cases, dental implant surgery may still be the best option, even if the jawbone or gum tissue is not in perfect condition. Our team will work closely with you to explore all the available treatment options and determine the most suitable path forward.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a supplemental procedure used when there is insufficient healthy jawbone to support the placement of a dental implant. During this treatment, a small amount of bone is harvested from another area of the body, such as the hip or the tibia, and grafted onto the existing jawbone.
The goal of bone grafting is to restore the strength and density of the jawbone, creating a stable foundation for the dental implant. This supplemental dental implant procedure is particularly important for patients who have experienced significant bone loss due to factors such as tooth extractions, gum disease, or trauma.
After the bone grafting procedure, patients will need to carefully follow the post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Dickson and our team. This may include avoiding hard or crunchy foods, taking any prescribed medications, and maintaining excellent oral hygiene at home. As the bone graft integrates with the existing bone, it will create a robust structure to support the dental implant.
Sinus Lifts
Sinus lifts are another supplemental procedure commonly performed at My Dentist In Plano. This treatment is typically necessary when the upper jaw does not have enough bone height or the sinuses are too close to the jaw for traditional implant placement.
The sinus is an air-filled cavity located behind the cheekbones and above the upper back teeth. When these teeth are lost or extracted, the sinus can expand, causing the bone to become thinner and less suitable for implant placement. By performing a sinus lift, we can address this issue and prepare the jawbone for a successful implant procedure.
During a sinus lift, our skilled oral surgeon carefully lifts the sinus membrane and adds bone material to the upper jaw. This process helps to increase the available bone volume, providing a stronger and more stable foundation for the dental implant.
After a sinus lift, patients may experience some minor discomfort, such as bruising, swelling, or mild discomfort. However, these symptoms can be easily managed with the appropriate medications and plenty of rest. Our team will provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome.
Ridge Augmentation
Ridge augmentation is another supplemental procedure offered at My Dentist In Plano. This treatment is used to improve the chances of successful dental implant placement when the jawbone has been resorbed or worn away, leaving a narrow or uneven ridge.
During a ridge augmentation, our specialist will add bone material to the jaw, building up the ridge and creating a stable foundation for the dental implant. This procedure can be particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced significant bone loss due to factors such as tooth extractions, gum disease, or trauma.
The recovery time for ridge augmentation can vary depending on the extent of the procedure. Patients may experience some swelling or minor discomfort after the treatment, but these symptoms can be easily managed with rest and any necessary medications.
