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Loss of bone is one of the most significant factors
contributing to the need for periodontal surgery.
When periodontal
disease is advanced bone loss may be so great
that implants cannot be placed. There is simply
too little bone to anchor an implant. Fortunately,
there are a number of grafting procedures that have
been developed which will encourage new bone growth.
One of these is the Ramus Bone Graft. The advantage
of this procedure is that it uses a patient's own
bone which is advantageous in healing. Other grafting
choices may include the use of synthetic material
or other bone products from bone banks. Each method
has advantages depending on the specific situation.
The specialists at Century City Periodontics in Los Angeles are familiar with each of the various grafting methods. Our periodontists can evaluate the best approach for a patient's individual needs.
| The Procedure |
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Bone graft procedures will often begin by harvesting a patient's own bone. The ramus is the name for the back portion of the lower jaw which is a usual harvest site. This is considered an excellent area for gathering natural bone to use in a graft. It is certainly advantageous to use a patient's own bone for the graft but it is not absolutely essential. When it is not possible to use self donor bone your periodontist will choose from among the other grafting materials available.
Regardless of whether natural bone or one of the
other materials is used, the surgical procedure
is usually done with local anesthesia. If a patient
desires further sedation it can be provided. To
complete the surgery the gum
tissue in the area is lifted aside and the harvested
bone replacement material is placed at the site.
The gums are then carefully sutured to hold the
graft in place. It may take quite some time for
the grafted bone to completely heal and make a permanent
fusion. Once healing has occurred an implant
or bridge can be completed in the area.
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