Dental Implant Supplemental Procedures

Are You Ready for Implants?

Not every patient is immediately ready for dental implants. Sometimes, additional procedures are necessary to create the ideal foundation for a long-lasting, stable implant. These supplemental procedures can significantly enhance the success of your dental implants and ensure a confident, healthy smile.

In some cases, dental implants may not be the best tooth replacement. To find out more, schedule your consultation with our Farmington, CT, dentist by calling (860) 470-3660.

Dr. Frank Kuzmin showing a patient their Xrays

What are Supplemental Procedures?

Supplemental procedures refer to additional steps that may be necessary to prepare the mouth for the placement of dental implants. These procedures are designed to address specific issues that can affect the success of the implant placement, such as insufficient jawbone density, issues with the gums, or other factors that may impact the stability and longevity of the implant. Some common examples of supplemental procedures include bone grafting, sinus lifts, and ridge augmentation.

Supplemental procedures aren’t always necessary, and the need for them will be determined on a case-by-case basis by your oral surgeon or periodontist. The risks, benefits, and healing times of each procedure must be discussed before implant placement.

Bone Grafting

A bone grafting procedure is used when there’s not enough healthy jawbone present to support the implant post. During bone graft surgery, a small amount of bone is removed from another part of the body, such as the hip or the tibia, and placed in the jawbone to restore its strength. 

After a bone graft, patients will need to carefully follow their dentist’s post-operative instructions to ensure a successful recovery. Instructions may include avoiding hard or crunchy foods, taking any prescribed medications, and maintaining good oral hygiene at home. 

While you recover, the bone graft will integrate with the existing bone, creating a strong foundation for dental implants or other tooth replacement options. 

Sinus Lift

Sinus lifts are typically necessary when the upper jaw has too little bone height or the sinuses are too close to the jaw for traditional implant placement. The sinus membrane is lifted during this procedure, and bone is added to the upper jaw to provide support for the implant.

The sinus is an air-filled cavity located behind the cheekbones and above the upper back teeth. When these teeth are lost or extracted, the sinus expands and causes the bone to become thinner, making it difficult to place dental implants.

After a sinus lift, patients may experience bruising, swelling, and minor discomfort. However, these symptoms are easily manageable with medications and plenty of rest. Make sure to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-op care. 

Ridge Augmentation

Ridge augmentation is used to improve the chances of successful implant placement. When the jawbone has been resorbed or worn away, leaving a narrow or uneven ridge in the jaw, ridge augmentation may be necessary. During ridge augmentation, bone is added to the jaw to build up the ridge and create a stable foundation for the implant.

Recovery time for ridge augmentations varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Patients may experience swelling or minor discomfort after the procedure, but symptoms can be easily managed with rest and medications.

woman looking in the mirror at the dentist

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Dental Implant Ready With Supplemental Procedures

Dental implant supplemental procedures are additional steps that may be necessary to prepare the mouth for the placement of dental implants. Learn more about supplemental procedures or dental implants with our Farmington dentist. 

Contact our dental office today at (860) 470-3660 to schedule your appointment. We’re proud to serve new and returning patients in Plainville, New Britain, Hartford, and Newington, CT!

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