The decision to get dental implants to replace your missing teeth is a big one. Once you have made your decision to get dental implants and you have saved up the cost of the procedure, you may think that you are ready to get this done. Yet in some cases, more dental work must be completed before the dental implants can be put into place. A bone graft is actually a common procedure done before dental implants. Here are three reasons you might need a bone graft before getting dental implants.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is often referred to as gum disease, but it can affect much more than just your gums. When periodontal disease is not detected or treated in its earlier stages, it can affect the bone of the jaw below the gum line. This infection in the bone weakens it so that dental implants cannot adhere. If you have periodontal disease, you will need to have that problem treated and possibly have a bone graft before you can get dental implants. [Read more…]