Dental bone refers to the jawbone where teeth are anchored. It's not a specific type of bone, but rather the bone structure within your jaw that supports your teeth. When people refer to "dental bone," they usually mean the health and volume of this jawbone tissue. A healthy jawbone is essential for maintaining a full and functional set of teeth.
Why is Dental Bone Important?
- Tooth Support: The jawbone provides the necessary foundation for teeth to stay firmly in place. Without adequate bone, teeth can become loose, shift, or eventually fall out.
- Facial Structure: The jawbone also contributes to your facial shape and profile. Bone loss can cause your face to appear sunken or aged.
- Dental Procedures: Many dental procedures, like implants, rely on a sufficient amount of healthy bone for successful integration and function.
Problems Related to Dental Bone Loss
Bone loss in the jaw can occur due to various factors:
- Periodontal Disease: Gum disease can destroy the bone that supports teeth.
- Tooth Loss: When teeth are missing, the bone beneath them gradually deteriorates because it's no longer stimulated by chewing.
- Trauma: Injuries to the jaw can lead to bone loss.
- Age: As we age, bone density naturally decreases throughout the body, including the jaw.
- Infections: Dental infections can lead to the degradation of surrounding bone.
Dental Bone Grafting
A dental bone graft is a surgical procedure used to address bone loss in the jaw. According to the provided reference, it involves:
- Increasing Volume and Density: The primary goal is to increase the amount and density of the jawbone.
- Bone Grafting Material: A healthcare provider adds powdered bone grafting material to areas where bone has been lost or thinned. This material can be natural or lab-made.
- Preparation for Implants: Bone grafting is often performed to prepare the jaw for dental implants when there isn't enough existing bone to support them.
Types of Grafting Materials
- Autograft: Bone taken from the patient's own body.
- Allograft: Bone from a deceased donor.
- Xenograft: Bone from an animal, often bovine (cow) bone.
- Alloplast: Synthetic bone material.
| Procedure | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bone Graft | A surgery where powdered bone material (natural or artificial) is added to areas where the bone is insufficient. | Increases bone volume and density, particularly before getting dental implants, thus ensuring the new teeth have a strong foundation. |
