Bone Augmentation and Nerve Repositioning - Understanding the Procedures
Posted on 2/15/2025 by Clackamas Oral Surgery
When it comes to getting dental implants, some patients may require additional procedures to ensure the success of their implants. Two such procedures are bone augmentation and nerve repositioning. While they may sound complex, understanding what they entail can help you make informed decisions about your dental care.
What is Bone Augmentation?
Imagine a building standing tall. Just like a building needs a strong foundation, a dental implant needs sufficient bone to support it. Bone augmentation is a procedure that increases the volume of bone in the jaw, creating a solid base for the implant. This is especially important for patients who have experienced bone loss due to periodontal disease, tooth extraction, or other factors.
The procedure involves grafting bone material from another area of your body, a donor, or a synthetic bone substitute. This material is then placed in the area where the implant will be placed, allowing new bone to grow and integrate with the existing bone.
Why is Bone Augmentation Needed?
Bone augmentation is crucial for several reasons:
•
Provides stability for the implant: Adequate bone mass ensures the implant can withstand biting and chewing forces.
•
Prevents implant failure: Without sufficient bone support, the implant is at risk of failing and needing to be replaced.
•
Improves aesthetics: Bone augmentation can restore the natural contours of your face and jawline, enhancing your smile.
What is Nerve Repositioning?
Sometimes, the nerves in the jaw can be located close to where the implant needs to be placed. This proximity can pose a risk of nerve damage during the implant surgery. Nerve repositioning, as the name suggests, involves carefully moving the nerve away from the implant site. This ensures the nerve remains protected and functioning properly.
When is Nerve Repositioning Needed?
Nerve repositioning is usually necessary if:
•
The implant needs to be placed in close proximity to a nerve.
•
The patient has a history of nerve damage or numbness in the area.
•
Imaging scans reveal the nerve is close to the implant site.
The Importance of Expertise
Both bone augmentation and nerve repositioning require specialized skills and expertise. Choosing an experienced oral surgeon who is familiar with these procedures is essential. They will assess your individual needs, explain the procedures in detail, and ensure the procedures are performed safely and effectively.
Conclusion
Bone augmentation and nerve repositioning are valuable procedures that can increase the success rate of dental implants and improve oral health. Understanding these procedures empowers you to make informed decisions about your dental care and achieve a healthy, functional smile.
About Us • Oral Surgeon Clackamas, OR • Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center is the office of Brett M. Sullivan, DMD, a Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon. Click to learn more about us! Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center - Brett Sullivan, DMD, MD, 11211 SE Sunnyside Road, Clackamas, OR 97015 : (503) 652-8080 : clackamasoralsurgery.com : 3/17/2025 : Associated Words: about us,oral surgeon clackamas,clackamas oral surgeon
When it comes to getting dental implants, some patients may require additional procedures to ensure the success of their implants. Two such procedures are bone augmentation and nerve repositioning. While they may sound complex, understanding what they entail can help you make informed decisions about your dental care.