When teeth are missing, if there has been an injury, or if there is advanced dental disease, there may be less bone available for placement of implants. We can assess this for you. If there is poor quality or quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants,
we may suggest bone replenishment techniques. We are careful and gentle and perform these surgeries with minimum discomfort.
Great new technologies have been developed even over the past several years which allow us to place new bone in areas that were impossible in the past. There are new technologies coming out which show even greater promise to regain bone in even severe cases, such as after cancer surgery or severe bone loss after an accident or loss due to aging.
Dr. Wagner is familiar with and practices cutting edge techniques to regain and rebuild lost bone structure. We now have the ability to grow bone where needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and esthetic appearance. Ask us about how we already use your own stem cells to enhance bone healing!
Sinus Lift Procedure
Our sinuses are hollow air filled spaces in the cheek bones right above the back teeth. The sinus is lined with tissue that is very responsive and can act as support, blood and nourishment for bone placed as a graft in this area. The inside of the sinus is not disturbed and we are able to raise up or “lift” the sinus lining and gain bone height and thickness for implant placement. This is a commonly performed procedure for Dr. Wagner and we have had great success with it.
Dental Ridge-Augmentation
The dental ridge (or alveolus) is the part of the bone that supports the teeth and dental implants. In severe cases the ridge has been reabsorbed and a bone graft is placed to increase the ridge height and/or width.
These procedures may be performed separately or together, depending upon the individual’s condition. There are several areas of the body which are suitable for attaining bone grafts. In the maxillo-facial region, bone grafts can be taken from right inside the mouth. We mainly use the third molar region or the upper jaw behind the last tooth. New technologies, especially with the use of freeze dried bone, have reduced the need for having a graft donor site. These surgeries are performed in our office surgical suite typically under I.V. anesthesia.
Soft Tissue Grafting
Dr. Wagner can assess the condition and quality of the soft tissues around planned implant sites or other sites where the gums are deficient. We can perform various tissue grafting technologies to rebuild, transfer or regain proper tissue contours for a healthy mouth.
