How to Get Dental Implant When You Have a Small Jawbone
When you have a small jawbone and you want a dental implant, you need to know how to work around this issue. To deal with the minimal bone issue, you have to consider all of the procedures that could make dental implants a realistic option for you. It will take research and planning, but when you want dental implants, it is well worth the effort.
Add Bone
The first option you have for making sure a dental implant can go into your mouth is to increase the size of your jawbone. This task is usually done by adding new bone to your jaw though a procedure known as bone grafting.
Bone grafting is the process of transferring bone from one source into another to help the body grow additional bone mass. Cadaver bone is one of the more common options for this procedure, though you can also choose another material if you prefer.
For example, when you have sufficient bone density in other portions of your body, the oral surgeon can take a graft from your hip or thigh to complete this procedure. Animal bone is another viable option you have for bone grafting purposes. This material commonly comes from cows or pigs, since these bone types are biocompatible with humans.
Choose an Alternative Implant
When you prefer not to have a bone graft done, you do have alternative implant options. Your alternative options are to choose a smaller implant or one that does not go into the bone at all.
Mini implants for example, are generally 2-3.5 millimeters in size, which is smaller than a traditional implant that ranges from 3.5-4.2 millimeters. The narrowness of the implant can make it possible for you to get the work done you need, but without having to undergo a bone graft surgery.
Your other option is a subperiosteal implant, which does not go into the bone at all. With this implant, a metal piece goes on top of the bone and the connector comes through the gum line. This implant option is viable for those with minimal bone density and it can be used as the base for a single implant or you can use it to hold permanent dentures in place.
Having a small jawbone does not mean that you cannot get dental implants. However, you will need to deal with your jawbone issue by determining if a bone graft or a different implant is the right choice for your situation. Once you have some additional information, you can consult an oral surgeon and start the process of getting your new dental implant.
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