Effective Solution of Pre-implant Bone Deficiency with Hard Tissue Grafting and Bone Powder Applications

Over time, tooth loss can cause additional problems other than aesthetic and eating difficulties. One of these problems is the loss of volume of the jawbone in the area where the missing teeth have been missing for a long time. This situation negatively affects not only the oral structure but also chewing functions and modern treatment options such as implants.

Today, two main methods are used in maxillofacial surgery to compensate for such volume loss: hard tissue grafting and bone graft particles. Both techniques play a vital role in the pre-implant preparation process, let’s analyse these processes.

What is Hard Tissue Grafting? In Which Cases Is It Necessary?

The jawbone stays alive with the stimulus it receives from the tooth roots. However, in long-term tooth deficiencies, this stimulus disappears and the bone begins to melt over time. This bone loss may cause the volume required for implant application to be insufficient. At this point, hard tissue grafting comes into play.

Hard tissue grafting is the surgical reconstruction of missing or melted bone tissue. During the application, the jawbone is supported with graft materials obtained from different sources and a suitable ground is prepared for new bone formation.

What Types of Grafts Are Used?

The graft materials used in practice can be obtained from different sources depending on the need. Each type of graft has its own unique advantages:

• Autograft: Bone tissue taken from the patient’s own body (usually the chin, hip, or rib). It is the most biologically compatible option.
• Allograft: Sterile bone graft obtained from a tissue bank. It is used in ready-made form and does not require a second surgical site.
• Synthetic Grafts: Biocompatible, artificial bone materials produced in a laboratory environment. They are easy to shape and access.

The type of graft to be used is determined by the specialist physician, taking into account the extent of bone loss, the application site, and the patient’s systemic condition.

Application Process and Recovery

Hard tissue grafting can be performed surgically under local anaesthesia. However, depending on the patient, the surgeon, and the extent of the surgery, general anaesthesia or sedation may also be required. In other words, the anaesthesia is determined entirely by the situation. For example, iliac grafts must be performed under general anaesthesia. After the graft material is placed in the deficient area, it is closed with sutures and the area is allowed to heal.

New bone formation takes an average of 4–6 months. At the end of this period, when the bone volume is sufficient, implant treatment can be performed safely. The success of the graft is monitored through regular check-ups during the healing process.

Bone Powder (Particle Graft) Applications: A Practical Solution for Minimal Volumes

Not all bone loss requires major surgery. In cases of smaller volume loss or interventions performed to preserve bone structure, particle-form grafts known as bone powder come into play.

Bone graft is a graft material in the form of fine particles. It can be applied without the need for extensive surgery and quickly supports the area. This aspect enhances patient comfort and accelerates the healing process.

Where is it used?

Bone graft is safely used in many areas of oral and maxillofacial surgery:

• Socket preservation after tooth extraction: Bone grafting placed in the extraction socket prevents collapse and volume loss.
• Small bone fractures and defects: Provides support for small fractures or traumatic areas.
• Sinus Lift (Sinus Floor Elevation): Applied in the upper rear region of the jaw to increase bone volume prior to implant placement.

These applications significantly increase implant success after surgery. In addition, the patient undergoes a less traumatic process.

Key Differences Between Block Grafts and Bone Grafts

Although both methods serve the same purpose, they should be chosen according to the application area and need:

• Block Graft: Preferred when large-volume and structurally strong bone formation is required. The surgical procedure is more extensive.
• Bone Powder: Used for minimal deficiencies and for support purposes. The application time is short, and recovery is faster.

An expert maxillofacial surgeon can use these two methods together. For example, the block graft can be supported with bone powder to achieve a more stable structure.

Treatment Planning: Which Method Should Be Used in Which Cases?

Each patient’s bone structure and needs are different. Therefore, treatment planning should be tailored to the individual. Below is a general guideline:

• If there is a significant loss of bone volume → Block grafting may be applied.
• If there are small defects or spaces that need to be preserved after extraction → Bone grafting is sufficient.
• If both aesthetic and functional results are desired → Combined techniques may be preferred.

The appropriate method is determined following an expert evaluation. The goal is to create a long-lasting, stable, and functional jaw structure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can an implant be placed immediately after grafting?

No. A bone formation process of 4–6 months is typically required. Implant placement is performed after this period.

Does the graft material dissolve in the body?

Biocompatible materials are gradually reshaped by the body and replaced with new bone tissue.

Is the graft procedure painful?

The procedure is performed under local or general anaesthesia or sedation. Mild sensitivity may occur afterward, but pain management is straightforward.

A Solid Foundation for Implants, a Healthy Future

One of the most successful methods for replacing missing teeth is implant treatment. However, for the implant to be long-lasting, the jawbone must provide a solid foundation. Hard tissue grafting and bone grafting are the most effective solutions offered by oral surgery to prepare this solid foundation.

To determine the most suitable treatment based on the condition of your bone and your needs, you can contact us, visit our clinic, and receive a specialist evaluation. You can view examples of our operations on Instagram.