Dental implants are usually the ideal restoration for those who want to replace a missing tooth. If the jaw bone is too thin, however, the procedure won’t work.
Unlike a dental bridge, a tooth implant consists of a titanium post inserted into the jaw bone. The bone meshes with the post to create a strong base for the natural-looking prosthetic tooth and crown that attaches to the post.
During a tooth extraction, the bone loses the blood circulation at the former site of the root. This contributes to bone recession. In more serious cases, the bone isn’t able to hold the dental implant post.
Bone grafting augments the bone at the implant site and provides the bone density necessary for a successful implant. While effective, the process requires additional time for the new bone to generate. A new discovery may provide a quicker solution for regenerating bone.
In recent years, researchers at Georgia Regents University identified a protein that quickly stimulates the production of new bone. The research team, led by Dr. Ulf M.E. Wikesjo, implanted bone morphogenetic protein in test subjects and discovered that “more new bone formed within four weeks than with conventional bone grafting.”
While this research looks promising, the protein and its effects will require further testing. Our goal is to make dental implants possible for all patients with missing teeth and jawbone recession. To schedule restorative dentistry procedure, contact Nashville Aesthetic Dentistry – Dennis J. Wells, DDS. We’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Call Nashville Aesthetic Dentistry – Dennis J. Wells, DDS at 615-371-8878 for a consultation today.
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
105 Powell Ct Ste 101
Nashville, TN
37027