and Dr. Cherukuri are experts in the field of restorative dentistry in Harrisburg. At our office, we specialize in the placement and restoration of dental implants. Dental implants can be used to replace one tooth with a crown, or multiple teeth with an implant-supported bridge.Implant-supported dentures can even replace an entire arch of missing teeth.
Implant dentistry is the best way to restore your smile permanently. If you’ve been thinking about getting dental implants, you may be wondering about related procedures, such as bone grafts and sinus lifts. Here are some things to keep in mind to help you understand whether you’ll need one of these procedures before your implant procedure:
Understanding the Basics About Bone Grafts and Sinus Lifts
Bone grafts and sinus lifts are somewhat different, but are used to accomplish the same basic task. These treatments are used to provide a solid, strong platform upon which a dental implant can be placed.
A bone graft utilizes a piece of bone from an animal, donor tissue, or from elsewhere on your own body, which is placed into the gumline in a brief surgical procedure, then allowed to heal.
A sinus lift is similar, but is used on the upper teeth. An opening is made in the gum tissue, the sinus membrane is lifted, and bone powder is packed into the area. This bone will integrate with the surrounding tissue over time to strengthen it.
Why Would I Need a Bone Graft or Sinus Lift?
The most common reason that a patient may need a bone graft or sinus lift is due to the deterioration of their natural jaw and gum tissue after tooth loss. Once a natural tooth is lost, the underlying tissue is no longer protected or stimulated, and will begin to recede and weaken. This process usually begins about six months after a tooth is lost.
If you have been wearing a full or partial denture, or a dental bridge to restore a missing tooth, or if you have been missing a tooth with no restorative treatment, you may need a bone graft or sinus lift before implant surgery.
The best way to avoid this procedure is by having an implant placed within several months of losing your original tooth. Dental implants function as an artificial tooth root, stimulating and supporting the surrounding tissue, which prevents it from deteriorating.
How Long Does It Take To Recover and Have an Implant Placed?
Depending on your overall level of oral health and the state of your jaw tissue, it may take 3-9 months to heal from a sinus lift or bone graft, and for the graft to be stable enough to support a dental implant.
The implant itself will also usually take between 3-6 months to heal, so the total treatment time for a bone graft or sinus lift along with a dental implant is usually about a year, though this may vary.
Come To Harrisburg Smiles For an Implant Consultation Now!
Not sure if you need a bone graft or sinus lift? Interested in dental implants? Come in for a consultation at Harrisburg Smiles today! Dr. Cherukuri can perform a comprehensive oral assessment, and determine whether your jaw is healthy enough for a dental implant.
Contact us now at (980) 258-0866 to get started, or drop by our office at 4310 Physicians Blvd, Harrisburg, NC 28075 for an appointment. We look forward to seeing you,and discussing how we can help you with our expert restorative dentistry options.
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