When bone grafting may be discussed
Bone grafting is a procedure that adds or supports bone in selected areas of the jaw. During dental implant planning, it may be discussed when the available bone shape or volume needs to be addressed. The need, material and timing depend on examination, imaging and the proposed treatment.
Socket preservation after extraction
Socket preservation is a grafting approach sometimes considered when a tooth is removed, with the aim of helping maintain the shape of the site as it heals. It may be discussed when future implant treatment is being considered, but it does not guarantee that further grafting will not be needed or that an implant will be suitable.
Bone grafting for dental implants
Grafting may be considered before, during or after implant placement, depending on the site and treatment plan. A clinician reviews imaging, oral health, medical history and the restorative goal. Read about dental implants and their treatment stages.
Sinus augmentation for the upper jaw
The maxillary sinuses sit above the back teeth in the upper jaw. If bone height is limited in an area being assessed for an implant, sinus augmentation (sinus lift) may be considered to create or support bone in that region. Examination and imaging guide whether this approach is appropriate.
Lateral-window sinus lift
A lateral-window approach accesses the sinus floor from the side of the upper jaw. It may be considered when the treatment plan calls for more augmentation or a particular access route. The clinician will explain the procedure, healing and alternatives for your case.
Internal sinus lift or sinus bump
An internal or crestal sinus elevation is approached through the implant site and may be considered in selected cases where the anatomy and planned elevation are suitable. “Sinus bump” is an informal term sometimes used for an internal approach. It differs from a lateral-window method in access and technique.
Neither approach is best for everyone. The recommendation depends on available bone, sinus anatomy, the amount of elevation needed, health factors and the overall treatment plan.
Assessment, imaging and planning
Assessment may include a review of medical history, examination of teeth and gums, and diagnostic imaging. Three-dimensional imaging may be recommended where it helps evaluate anatomy and plan care. The clinician will discuss the procedure, who will provide it and where; referral may be appropriate.
Healing and follow-up
Healing time varies with the procedure, graft material and individual factors. The treating clinician will provide instructions about oral care, activity, follow-up and when the next stage can be considered. Additional healing may be needed before implant placement or restoration.
Benefits, limitations and alternatives
Grafting may support a treatment plan when bone dimensions need to be addressed, but it adds treatment steps and has risks and limitations. Alternatives may include a different tooth-replacement option, a different implant plan or no treatment. Suitability requires individual assessment.
Bone grafting and sinus lift FAQs
Does every implant need a bone graft?
No. Whether grafting is considered depends on anatomy and the treatment plan. Examination and imaging are needed.
What is socket preservation?
It is a grafting approach sometimes considered when a tooth is extracted, with the aim of helping maintain the shape of the site during healing. It does not guarantee a future implant.
What is the difference between internal and lateral-window sinus lifts?
They use different access approaches to the sinus floor. The appropriate option depends on the amount of elevation needed, anatomy and treatment plan.
How long before an implant can be placed?
Timing varies with the procedure and healing. The clinician can explain the sequence after reviewing your case.
Can sedation be discussed?
Mulberry Dental offers sedation options for suitable patients. Learn about sedation dentistry and discuss suitability with the treating dentist.
Discuss implant planning in Kingston
Call 613-766-9977 or request an appointment online to discuss an assessment at Mulberry Dental, 351 Montreal Street, Kingston, ON K7K 3H4. Free on-site patient parking is available.