Bone Grafting and Sinus Lifts
Dental implants require a strong, healthy jawbone to support them. Think of it like building a house; you can’t construct a sturdy, secure structure without a solid foundation.
Bone grafting and sinus lift procedures at Morris Family Dentistry can make dental implants possible for many who lack the needed level of bone density. With these procedures, Dr. Chad Morris helps many patients get implants who were not initially good candidates, opening the door for this life-changing treatment.
Why Would You Need Bone Grafting?
Some reasons Dr. Morris might recommend bone grafting include:
- Tooth loss that occurred months or years ago
- Gum disease that causes bone deterioration
- Natural aging that causes bone shrinkage
- Location of sinuses interfering with implant placement
We use only the highest quality grafting materials and techniques, with a focus on your safety and comfort.
Benefits of Bone Grafting
If you have been told you can't get a dental implant, bone grafting is a solution that offers several benefits.
Makes Dental Implants Possible
Prevents Continued Bone Loss
Restores Facial Appearance
Testimonial
Super Cleaning With No Discomfort Whatsoever.
I so appreciate the excellent dental care I always receive at Morris Family Dentistry. The occlusal equilibration that Dr Morris suggested to balance my bite and stop night time teeth clenching has stopped my headaches, jaw pain and averted further tooth damage. Macy is an excellent hygenist - super cleaning with no discomfort whatsoever! I appreciate the pleasant atmosphere in the office, efficiency of scheduling and outstanding routine care as well. I am thankful for Morris Family Dentistry.
- Christy
What to Expect with Bone Grafting
The bone grafting procedure is straightforward. Dr. Morris starts with advanced imaging to evaluate bone density and recommend the best type of graft for your situation. He'll explain your options, answer your questions, and create a personalized treatment plan depending on the type of graft needed.
- Bone Grafting — This procedure involves placing bone or bone-like material into deficient areas of the jaw under local anesthesia. Most patients tell us they experience minimal discomfort during treatment.
- Sinus Lift Procedure — In cases where the sinuses interfere with implant placement, Dr. Morris gently lifts the sinus membrane and places bone material beneath it. The lift creates the space needed between the sinuses and jaw for successful implant placement.
- Socket Preservation — Immediately after tooth extraction, we place bone material into the empty socket to maintain bone volume. This prevents the significant bone loss that typically occurs after tooth removal or loss.
Enhanced Healing with Platelet-Rich Fibrin
As part of the bone grafting process, Dr. Morris uses platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to optimize your body's natural healing abilities. This process involves a simple blood draw that we process in our office using a centrifuge to concentrate your own platelets, growth factors, and healing cells.
When applied to the surgical site, PRF acts like a natural scaffold that accelerates healing, reduces complications, and improves bone regeneration. It's your body's own healing power, concentrated where you need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions
The healing timeline after bone grafting varies, but our bone grafting dentist in Zachary, LA typically waits 3–6 months before implant placement to ensure the new bone has integrated properly and can support your implant.
After Your Bone Grafting Procedure
Healing after bone graft surgery proceeds as follows:
- Initial Healing (First 2 Weeks): Your gums heal over the graft site while the bone material begins integrating with your existing jawbone. We'll provide specific care instructions to protect the area.
- Integration Period (3-6 Months): Your body gradually replaces the graft material with your own new, healthy bone tissue. Everyone heals at slightly different rates.
- Regular Monitoring: Dr. Morris will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure everything is developing as expected.
How We Determine You're Ready
- Clinical Examination — We assess gum tissue health and check for any signs of complications or delayed healing.
- Advanced Imaging — Our CBCT cone beam technology provides detailed 3D images showing bone density and volume at the implant site.
- Stability Testing — Dr. Morris evaluates whether the grafted area can provide adequate support for the implant fixture.
Factors That Influence Bone Graft Healing
Your healing timeline depends on several factors, including the size of the graft, your overall health, age, and whether you smoke. Some patients with smaller grafts may be ready in three months, while more extensive procedures might require the full six-month healing period.
Planning your implant journey? Dr. Morris will provide realistic timelines based on your specific situation. We serve patients throughout Central, Slaughter, Ethel, Pride, Baton Rouge, St. Francisville, Denham Springs, and beyond. Call (225) 654-3964 to schedule your bone grafting consultation.
Bone Graft Healing and Next Steps
Bone grafting healing typically takes 4–6 months. During this time, the grafted material forms a “scaffold” on which new bone develops. Dr. Morris monitors the healing process and will let you know when you’re ready for implant placement.
Is Bone Grafting Right for You?
Have you been told you can’t get a dental implant due to bone loss, or wonder if you’re a good candidate? Modern bone grafting techniques are reliable and can often solve even the most challenging cases.
We welcome you to call Morris Family Dentistry today at (225) 654-3964 to schedule your bone grafting consultation. As your trusted dental implant dentist in Zachary, LA, Dr. Morris serves patients throughout Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, St. Francisville, and surrounding communities.
