Bone Grafting and Soft Tissue Augmentation in Kerrville, TX

Bone and Soft Tissue Augmentation: Improving Your Chances at Implant Success

As outlined on our implant candidacy page, certain patients may initially face obstacles in proceeding with the dental implant process. Primary reasons include jawbone deterioration and gum recession, compromising the support structures crucial for stabilizing dental implants. Opting for implant treatment under such conditions increases the risk of implant failure.

The good news is that patients dealing with these issues can reverse the damage through supplementary procedures like bone and soft tissue augmentation. At Precision Dentistry & Implants, led by Dr. Matthew Huff, we provide these supplemental procedures to effectively restore your eligibility for implant treatment. Discover more about these solutions by dialing (830) 896-8343.

What Are Supplemental Procedures?

Supplemental procedures, in the context of dental implants, refer to additional treatments or interventions that are performed to address specific challenges or conditions that may hinder the success of the implant process. These procedures are designed to provide necessary support and create a more conducive environment for the placement and stability of dental implants. Common supplemental procedures include bone grafting and gum grafting. 

Problems Addressed by Supplemental Procedures

Jaw Bone Deterioration

Losing a tooth can initiate jawbone deterioration due to the lack of constant stimulation required for bone health. Vibrations generated by chewing and speaking travel through teeth, roots, and into the jawbone, maintaining its strength. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area no longer receives the necessary exercise, leading to deterioration. 

Beyond hindering dental implant placement, jawbone deterioration can impact facial appearance, causing hollowed cheeks and premature wrinkles around the lips. This condition often results in an aged or unhealthy appearance.

Gum Recession

Similar to the jawbone, missing teeth can impact your gums, potentially leading to gum recession. Receding gums pose challenges in restoring missing teeth and may also harm the remaining ones. Contributing factors to gum recession include aggressive brushing, which can damage the gums around your teeth, and inadequate oral hygiene practices. Additionally, periodontal disease targets and damages the gums, causing them to recede as the condition progresses, eventually pulling away from the teeth. 

Bone and Soft Tissue Augmentation at Precision Dentistry & Implants

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting, or bone augmentation is a surgical procedure performed to enhance the jawbone’s strength and density. During bone grafting, bone material, either from the patient or a donor source, is transplanted to the targeted area, stimulating new bone growth and providing the necessary foundation for various dental treatments. 

Soft Tissue Augmentation

Soft tissue augmentation, also known as gum grafting, is a dental procedure designed to enhance and restore the health and appearance of the gums. The procedure involves the addition of tissue to the gums, addressing issues such as gum recession or insufficient gum height. 

Soft tissue augmentation aims to rebuild and augment the gums, creating a more harmonious and balanced appearance. The added tissue can be sourced from the patient’s own mouth or, in some cases, from a donor or synthetic material.

Benefits of Bone and Soft Tissue Augmentation

Supplemental procedures like bone and soft tissue augmentation offer many benefits, not just for your chances at implant success, but for your overall health. Some of the benefits of these supplemental procedures include the following:

• Improved Jawbone Strength and Density: Bone grafting enhances the jawbone’s structural integrity, providing a robust foundation for dental procedures like implant placement.
• Support for Dental Implants: By promoting new bone growth, bone grafting ensures a stable and secure environment for successful dental implant integration.
• Prevention of Jawbone Deterioration: Addressing bone loss due to tooth extraction or loss, bone grafting prevents further deterioration and maintains overall oral health.
• Restoration of Gum Health: Soft tissue augmentation corrects gum recession, reducing the risk of exposed tooth roots, enhancing gum aesthetics, and protecting against periodontal issues.
• Balanced Gumline: The procedure creates a more symmetrical and balanced gumline, contributing to an improved overall smile appearance.
• Protection of Tooth Roots: Soft tissue augmentation safeguards tooth roots from exposure, reducing sensitivity and preventing potential damage.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Both bone and soft tissue augmentation contribute to an aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking smile, boosting confidence.

Who Qualifies for Bone and Soft Tissue Augmentation?

Qualification for supplemental procedures in dentistry, such as bone and soft tissue augmentation, depends on individual oral health conditions and treatment goals. Generally, individuals who may qualify for these procedures include:

• Candidates for Dental Implants: Individuals planning to undergo dental implant placement often qualify for bone grafting to ensure a solid foundation for successful implant integration.
• Patients with Jawbone Deterioration: Those experiencing jawbone deterioration due to tooth loss, trauma, or other factors may qualify for bone grafting to restore bone density.
• Gum Recession Concerns: Individuals with gum recession, either due to periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, or other causes, may be candidates for soft tissue augmentation to restore gum health and aesthetics.
• Smile Enhancement: Patients seeking smile enhancement, including addressing uneven gumlines or achieving a more balanced appearance, may qualify for these procedures.
• Periodontal Patients: Individuals with periodontal disease that has caused bone loss or gum recession may benefit from supplemental procedures to improve overall oral health.

Frequently Asked Questions