Missing teeth not only affect aesthetics, but can also lead to bone loss and long-term functional issues, according to Mountain View dentist Donian Shen, DDS. She explains that one of the most popular and recommended treatments for missing teeth, dental implants, requires adequate bone density to be effective.
While many patients have the bone density needed, she says those who want dental implants but lack bone density may not be ideal candidates. Dr. Shen notes that bone grafts can often help patients achieve adequate bone density for dental implants.
Bone grafting is a surgical technique designed to rebuild the jawbone. Dr. Shen says patients who lack adequate bone structure for implants can use bone grafts to rebuild their jawbone. She adds that bone grafts can come from a variety of sources, including the patient’s own body, donors, or animals, depending on the individual’s needs and preferences.
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