We’ll Help Prepare You for Successful Dental Implant Surgery
Are you ready to replace those missing teeth, but you’ve been told you don’t qualify for dental implants? For some patients, a supplemental procedure can prepare them for implants and give them the smile they’re wanting! Whether you need sinus lift surgery or bone grafts, our West Sayville dentist is here to help you complete your smile.
To learn more about your candidacy, contact our team today at 631-563-1583.
What Is a Supplemental Procedure?
A supplemental procedure refers to additional steps that may be necessary to prepare the mouth for the placement of dental implants. These procedures are designed to address specific issues that can affect the success of implant placement, such as insufficient jawbone density, issues with the gums, or other factors that may impact the stability and longevity of the implant.
Supplemental surgical procedures aren’t always necessary, and the need for them will be determined on a case-by-case basis by your oral surgeon or dentist.
Bone Grafting
A bone grafting surgery is used when there’s not enough healthy jawbone to support the implant post. During this surgical procedure, a small amount of bone is removed from another part of the body, such as the hip or the tibia, and placed in the jawbone to restore its strength.
The bone graft material acts as a scaffold, providing a framework for new bone growth (osseointegration) and stimulating the body’s natural healing process. Over time, the graft material is gradually replaced by the patient’s own bone, resulting in increased bone volume and density.
After a bone graft, patients need to carefully follow their dentist’s post-operative instructions to ensure a successful recovery. Instructions may include avoiding hard or crunchy foods, taking prescribed medications, and maintaining good oral hygiene at home.
While you recover, the bone graft will integrate with the existing bone, creating a strong foundation for tooth replacement.
Sinus Lift
Sinus lifts, also known as sinus augmentation or sinus elevation, are surgical procedures performed to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw (maxilla) in the area of the molars and premolars. This procedure is often necessary when there’s insufficient bone height in the posterior maxilla due to the proximity of the sinus cavity.
During a sinus lift surgery, the sinus membrane is gently lifted or “elevated” to create a space between the sinus floor and the upper jawbone. Bone graft material, either from the patient’s own body (autograft), donor tissue (allograft), or synthetic materials (alloplastic grafts), is then placed into the space created above the sinus floor.
After a sinus lift, patients may experience bruising, swelling, and minor discomfort. However, these symptoms are easily manageable with medications and plenty of rest. Make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-op care.
Ridge Augmentation
Ridge augmentation is a surgical procedure performed to enhance the height, width, or contour of the alveolar ridge, which is the bony ridge that supports the teeth. This procedure is typically necessary when the alveolar ridge has experienced bone loss or resorption due to factors such as tooth loss, trauma, periodontal disease, or congenital defects.
During ridge augmentation, bone graft material is placed along the deficient areas of the alveolar ridge to rebuild or reshape the bone structure. The bone graft material may be sourced from the patient’s own body, donor tissue, or a synthetic bone graft.
Recovery time for ridge augmentations varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Patients may experience swelling or minor discomfort after the procedure, but symptoms can be easily managed with rest and medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, supplemental procedures aren’t always necessary. Whether a supplemental procedure is needed before a dental implant treatment depends on the individual’s oral health. Some medical conditions may not require a supplemental procedure, while others may require one to achieve the desired implant results.
Whether insurance will cover the cost of a supplemental procedure depends on your insurance plan. Some insurance plans may cover the costs, while others may only partially cover them or not cover them at all. It’s best to check with your insurance provider for specific information about coverage for a particular supplemental procedure.