Bone Grafting Many patients might think bone grafts are used more for the treatment of bone cancer, and while they are right in that they are used in that respect, bone grafts are also widely used to treat issues associated with the oral cavity. Most frequently, bone grafts are used to treat issues directly related to the temporomandibular joint or the TMJ. This is the joint which joins the jaw to the skull. If an injury occurs involving the jaw or if the patient is suffering from periodontal disease, the jaw can come out of alignment, creating a host of issues all leading to the rapid deterioration of the jaw and the TMJ. When the TMJ has issues, it can cause pain along the jaw and specifically at the site of the joint, as well as cause problems chewing and even speaking. Bone grafts can be useful when placed directly at the TMJ site and can restore normal function to the jaw and the joint. For those patients dealing with pain related to TMJ issues, please reach out to Implant & Periodontics Solutions today to see if a bone graft might be the solution. Bone Graft DetailsA graft is a tissue taken from another part of the body. A bone graft, therefore, is a bit of bone tissue taken from bone located somewhere else on the human body. For the purpose of the oral cavity, it is used to help rebuild lost bone mass in either the upper or lower jaw. This is vital because in order for dental implants and artificial teeth to be placed, they need a solid foundation to support them. When the patient lacks healthy tissue, another donor may be sought out. Different Types of GraftsAutografts and allografts are the two most frequently used grafts. Both use the same techniques which are based upon the same principles. Which one best benefits the patient will have to be determined at the time of their evaluation. The autograft generally utilizes bone tissue taken from either the pelvis or the hip. It comes from the patient themselves. Allografts, while not as widely utilized, remain a solid option for bone grafts. In this case, the tissue is not taken from the patient but rather harvested from a cadaver. In these situations, the tissue is harvested and then remains in a tissue bank until a patient needs it. When is a Bone Graft Needed?Many patients report acute pain at their TMJ site. Patients might not be able to fully open or close their mouths either. They may also complain of issues with chewing. When patients have issues with their jaw functionality, it can cause undue wear and early erosion of their tooth enamel because they are not biting correctly. Bone grafts can repair these issues in a single operation. Any patients suffering from these symptoms should come to our Implant & Periodontics Solutions office for an evaluation to see if bone grafts could correct their problems. Our phone number is 623-556-5442. |
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