Many patients are surprised when they are told they need a “bone graft” before they can receive a dental implant. While the term sounds intimidating, it is a routine, highly successful procedure that ensures your new smile has a rock-solid foundation.

At Desert Hills Dental, Dr. Lance Swapp uses bone grafting to turn back the clock on bone loss, making dental implants a reality for almost everyone.

Why Do I Need a Bone Graft?

The relationship between your teeth and your jawbone is “use it or lose it.” Your jawbone stays thick and strong because the roots of your teeth stimulate it every time you chew.

When a tooth is lost, that stimulation stops. Within the first year alone, a significant amount of bone volume can disappear. A bone graft is necessary if:

• Your tooth has been missing for several months or years.
• You have had significant gum disease (periodontitis).
• Your jawbone is naturally too thin or soft to support an implant.

How Bone Grafting Works

Think of a bone graft as a “scaffold.” Dr. Swapp places specialized bone grafting material into the area where the bone has thinned.

Over the next few months, your body performs an amazing feat: it uses that scaffold to grow new, living bones. Once the area has healed and the bone is dense enough, it can securely hold a titanium implant post.

The Benefits of Pre-Implant Grafting:

• Long-Term Success: Ensures the implant won’t fail due to lack of support.
• Aesthetics: Prevents the “sunken” look in the gums and face.
• Versatility: Allows patients who were previously told they “weren’t candidates” for implants to finally restore their smiles.

A Comfortable Experience in St. George

At Desert Hills Dental, we prioritize patient comfort. Bone grafting is typically a minor procedure performed right here in our St. George office with local anesthesia. Most patients are pleasantly surprised at how simple the recovery is. To know more about pre-implant grafting, contact us at dentiststgeorgeutah.com or give us a call.