Strengthening Smiles With Bone Grafts
Major problems arise when we lose natural teeth. Obviously, there are problems with eating a variety of meals. Even talking clearly could be a problem. However, the major problem is the loss of mass and density in the jaw. This weakens the jaw, and could even cause a prematurely aged appearance. More importantly, this prevents dental implant placement. Additional treatments could be necessary to strengthen the jaw in order to make dental implant placement possible! Fortunately, Doctors Network could link you to a local Clam Gulch dentist who is in-network with Aetna and provides this care. In addition, we could also discuss our membership program to make care affordable!
Jawbone grafting is also known as ridge augmentation. Essentially this enables the dentist to preserve the ridge in your mandible. Your dentist could use a number of different options. We could take tissue from the back of the jaw or the hip. Donor materials like bovine bone may be recommended too. Some opt for synthetic materials. Through oral surgery, these are applied to the areas of weakened structure in the lower jawbone.
Once the area heals, the dental implants could be placed. The body will see them as natural structures. As a result, they help prevent any further breakdown in the jaw, preserving your smile. Our team can connect you to a dentist in Clam Gulch, AK who performs jawbone grafting, and also let you know about our dental plan to make sure your care fits your budget!