In healthy patients, a chin graft may never be necessary, but this procedure can restore your smile under certain conditions. You may not think that losing a tooth or having gum problems would be significant. Unfortunately, various complications can arise when these occur. A periodontist or oral surgeon may suggest getting a chin bone graft to preserve the function of your mouth.
In a chin graft, an oral surgeon takes some bone and places it in the jaw where there is currently insufficient growth. The surgeon may use bone from another part of the jaw, or bone can be used from elsewhere in the body such as a hip. The surgeon can also use human donor bones, animal bones or artificial synthetic bones. This surgery may be the right decision if the patient has suffered an injury or whether there has been tooth loss or deterioration. The recovery can be lengthy and challenging, but the process has a high success rate.
It is no wonder that dentists emphasize the importance of flossing regularly. Ignoring this daily habit can lead to gum disease such as periodontitis. In severe cases, this can weaken the person’s jaw and cause teeth to come loose. The next consequence can be bone loss. When an oral surgeon does a chin graft on the patient, there can once again be enough bone to support teeth and the structure of the mouth.
Losing permanent teeth may first be a cosmetic issue for patients. This can affect the person’s appearance and be embarrassing. Losing teeth can also be painful and make it difficult to chew and speak properly. Many patients with this condition choose to get dental implants. These durable artificial teeth do a good job of restoring the function of the mouth. However, if there is not a good base of jawbone for the implants, the oral surgeon will need to first do a bone graft.
Even if the patient decides not to get implants for missing teeth, bone loss can still be a problem. Without the right support in the jaw, adjacent teeth can still become loose or fall out too. Bone grafting will strengthen the entire jaw.
Crooked teeth will not just hinder a person’s smile, but they can cause bone loss too. Braces and clear aligners are effective options for straightening teeth. Before this treatment can start, however, the oral surgeon may first have to do a chin graft. This will build up the jawbone with enough bone strength to support the teeth.
You may not realize you need a chin graft until your dentist examines your teeth and mouth. The dentist will then refer you to a periodontist or an oral surgeon. This process is extensive, but it can restore your jawbone and preserve your teeth. An oral surgeon near you has the knowledge and training to help you maintain the oral health you need.
Request an appointment here: https://spectrumsurgical.net or call Facial Spectrum at (816) 524-4334 for an appointment in our Lee's Summit office.
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