Dental Bone Grafting in Tallahassee FL


Major bone grafts are typically performed to repair defects of the jaws.

These defects may arise as a result of traumatic injuries, tumor surgery, or congenital defects.

Major & Minor Bone Grafting

Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth atrophies or is reabsorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, most patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants.

Today, we have the ability to grow bone where needed. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, but it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and aesthetic appearance.

Restore Your Smile and Jaw Health with Bone Grafting

Experience the transformative benefits of bone grafting procedures for major and minor bone deficiencies. Regain a confident smile and optimal oral health with dental implants placed on a foundation of newly grown bone.

Call us: 850-562-6111

What is Major Bone Grafting?

Major bone grafts are typically performed to repair defects of the jaws. These defects may arise as a result of traumatic injuries, tumor surgery, or congenital defects. Large defects are repaired using the patient’s own bone. This bone is harvested from a number of different sites depending on the size of the defect. The skull (cranium), hip (iliac crest), and lateral knee (tibia), are common donor sites. These procedures are routinely performed in an operating room and require a hospital stay.

Bone grafting illustration
Bone grafting can repair implant sites with inadequate bone structure due to previous extractions, gum disease, or injuries. The bone is either obtained from a tissue bank or your own bone is taken from the jaw, hip, or tibia (below the knee). Sinus bone grafts are also performed to replace bone in the posterior upper jaw. In addition, special membranes may be utilized that dissolve under the gum and protect the bone graft and encourage bone regeneration. This is called guided bone regeneration or guided tissue regeneration.
why are Teeth important for Jaw Bone Health?

When one or more teeth are missing, it can lead to jawbone loss at the site of the gap. This loss of jawbone can develop into additional problems, both with your appearance and your overall health. You may experience pain, problems with your remaining teeth, and altered facial appearance, and eventually even the inability to speak and eat normally.
In that same way that muscles are maintained through exercise, bone tissue is maintained by use. Natural teeth are embedded in the jawbone and stimulate the jawbone through activities such as chewing and biting. When teeth are missing, the alveolar bone or the portion of the jawbone that anchors the teeth in the mouth no longer receives the necessary stimulation and begins to break down or resorb. The body no longer uses or “needs” the jawbone, so it deteriorates and goes away.

Potential Consequences of Tooth and Jawbone Loss

  • Problems with remaining teeth, including, misalignment, drifting, loosening, and loss
  • Collapsed facial profile
  • Limited lip support
  • Skin wrinkling around the mouth
  • Distortion of other facial features
  • Jaw (temporomandibular joint [TMJ]) pain, facial pain, and headaches
  • Difficulty speaking and communicating
  • Inadequate nutrition as a result of the inability to chew properly and painlessly
  • Sinus expansion
what are the Reasons for Jawbone Loss and Deterioration?

The following are the most common causes of jawbone deterioration and loss that may require a bone grafting procedure:

When do I need Tooth Extractions?

When an adult tooth is removed and not replaced, jawbone deterioration may occur. Natural teeth are embedded in the jawbone, and stimulate the jawbone through activities such as chewing and biting. When teeth are missing, the alveolar bone or the portion of the jawbone that anchors the teeth in the mouth, no longer receives the necessary stimulation and begins to break down or resorb. The body no longer uses or “needs” the jawbone, so it deteriorates and goes away.

The rate the bone deteriorates, as well as the amount of bone loss that occurs, varies greatly among individuals. However, most lost occurs within the first eighteen months following the extraction and continues throughout life.

Periodontal Disease:

Periodontal diseases are ongoing infections of the gums that gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Periodontal disease affects one or more of the periodontal tissues: alveolar bone, periodontal ligament, cementum or gingiva. While there are many diseases that affect the tooth-supporting structures, plaque-induced inflammatory lesions make up the majority of periodontal issues and are divided into two categories: gingivitis and periodontitis. While gingivitis, the less serious of the diseases, may never progress into periodontitis, it always precedes periodontitis.

Dental plaque is the primary cause of gingivitis in genetically-susceptible individuals. Plaque is a sticky colorless film, composed primarily of food particles and various types of bacteria, which adhere to your teeth at and below the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth, even minutes after cleaning. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums. Gums may become inflamed, red, swollen, and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth causing pockets (spaces) to form. If daily brushing and flossing is neglected, plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This can occur both above and below the gum line.

Periodontitis is affected by bacteria that adhere to the tooth’s surface, along with an overly aggressive immune response to these bacteria. If gingivitis progresses into periodontitis, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorates. The progressive loss of this bone, the alveolar, can lead to loosening and subsequent loss of teeth.

Dentures/Bridgework:

Unanchored dentures are placed on top of the gum line, and therefore do not provide any direct stimulation to the underlying alveolar bone. Over time, the lack of stimulation causes the bone to resorb and deteriorate. Because this type of denture relies on the bone to hold them in place, people often experience loosening of their dentures and problems eating and speaking. Eventually, bone loss may become so severe that dentures cannot be held in place even with strong adhesives, and a new set may be required. Proper denture care, repair, and refitting are essential to maintaining oral health.

Some dentures are supported by anchors, which do help adequately stimulate and therefore preserve bone.

With bridgework, the teeth on either side of the appliance provide sufficient stimulation to the bone, but the portion of the bridge that spans the gap where the teeth are missing receives no direct stimulation. Bone loss can occur in this area.
By completing a bone graft procedure, Dr. Colón, Dr. Guzmán and Dr. Zellner are now able to restore bone function and growth, thereby halting the effects of poor denture care.

Trauma:

When a tooth is knocked out or broken to the extent that no biting surface is left below the gum line, bone stimulation stops, which results in jaw bone loss. Some common forms of tooth and jaw trauma include: teeth knocked out from injury or accident, jaw fractures or teeth with a history of trauma that may die and lead to bone loss years after the initial trauma.

A bone grafting procedure would be necessary to reverse the effects of bone deterioration, restoring function and promoting new bone growth in traumatized areas.

Misalignment:

Misalignment issues can create a situation in the mouth where some teeth no longer have an opposing tooth structure. The unopposed tooth can over-erupt, causing deterioration of the underlying bone.

Issues such as TMJ problems, normal wear-and-tear, and lack of treatment can also create abnormal physical forces that interfere with the teeth’s ability to grind and chew properly. Over time, bone deterioration can occur where bone is losing stimulation.

Osteomyelitis:

Osteomyelitis is a type of bacterial infection in the bone and bone marrow of the jaw. The infection leads to inflammation, which can cause a reduction of blood supply to the bone. Treatment for osteomyelitis generally requires antibiotics and removal of the affected bone. A bone graft procedure may then be required to restore bone function and growth lost during removal.

Tumors:

Benign facial tumors, though generally non-threateningly, may grow large and require removal of a portion of the jaw. Malignant mouth tumors almost always spread into the jaw, requiring removal of a section of the jaw. In both cases, reconstructive bone grafting is usually required to help restore function to the jaw. Grafting in patients with malignant tumors may be more challenging because treatment of the cancerous tumor generally requires removal of surrounding soft tissue as well.

Developmental Deformities:

Some conditions or syndromes known as birth defects are characterized by missing portions of the teeth, facial bones, jaw or skull. Drs. Colón, Guzmán and Zellner may be able to perform a bone graft procedure to restore bone function and growth where it may be absent.

Sinus Deficiencies:

When molars are removed from the upper jaw, air pressure from the air cavity in the maxilla (maxillary sinus), causes resorption of the bone that formerly helped the teeth in place. As a result, the sinuses become enlarged, a condition called hyperneumatized sinus.

This condition usually develops over several years, and may result in insufficient bone fro the placement of dental implants. Our physicians can perform a procedure called a “sinus lift” that can treat enlarged sinuses.

what is a dental Bone Grafting procedure?

Over a period of time, the jawbone associated with missing teeth atrophies is reabsorbed. This often leaves a condition in which there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants. In these situations, most patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants.

With bone grafting, we now have the opportunity to not only replace bone where it is missing, but also the ability to promote new bone growth in that location. This not only gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width, it also gives us a chance to restore functionality and aesthetic appearance.

Types of Bone Grafts

Autogenous Bone Grafts: 

Autogenous bone grafts, also known as autografts, are made from your own bone, taken from somewhere else in the body. The bone is typically harvested from the chin, jaw, lower leg bone, hip or the skull. Autogenous bone grafts are advantageous in that the graft material is live bone, meaning it contains living cellular elements that enhance bone growth. However, one downside to the autograft is that it requires a second procedure to harvest bone from elsewhere in the body. Depending on your condition, a second procedure may not be in your best interest.

Allogenic Bone: 

Allogenic bone, or allograft, is dead bone harvested from a cadaver, then processed using a freeze-dry method to extract the water via a vacuum. Unlike autogenous bone, allogenic bone cannot produce new bone on it’s own. Rather, it serves as a framework or scaffold over which bone from the surrounding bony walls can grow to fill the defect or void.

Xenogenic Bone: 

Xenogenic bone is derived from non-living bone of another species, usually a cow. The bone is processed at very high temperatures to avoid the potential for immune rejection and contamination. Like allogenic grafts, xenogenic grafts serve as a framework for bone from the surrounding area to grow and fill the void.

Both allogenic and xenogenic bone grafting are advantageous in that they do not require a second procedure to harvest your own bone, as with autografts. However, because these options lack autograft’s bone-forming properties, bone regeneration may take longer than with autografts, with a less predictable outcome.

Bone Graft Substitutes

As a substitute to using real bone, many synthetic materials are available as a safe and proven alternative, including:

Demineralized Bone Matrix (DBM)/Demineralized Freeze-Dried Bone Allograft (DFDBA):

This product is processed allograft bone, containing collagen, proteins and growth factors that are extracted from the allograft bone. It is available in the form of powder, putty, chips or as a gel that can be injected through a syringe.

Graft Composites:

Graft composites consist of other bone graft materials and growth factors to achieve the benefits of a variety of substances. Some combinations may include: collagen/ceramic composite, which closely resembles the composition of natural bone, DBM combined with bone marrow cells, which aid in the growth of new bone, or a collagen/ceramic/autograft composite.

Bone Morphogenetic Proteins:

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are proteins naturally produced in the body that promote and regulate bone formation and healing.

Synthetic materials also have the advantage of not requiring a second procedure to harvest bone, reducing risk and pain. Each bone grafting option has its own risks and benefits. Our physicians will determine which type of bone graft material is right for you.

Why do I need Sinus Augmentation?

The maxillary sinuses are behind your cheeks and on top of the upper teeth. These sinuses are empty, air-filled spaces. Some of the roots of the natural upper teeth extend up into the maxillary sinuses. When these upper teeth are removed, there is often just a thin wall of bone separating the maxillary sinus and the mouth. Dental implants need bone to hold them in place. When the sinus wall is very thin, it is impossible to place dental implants in this bone.

The Sinus Augmentation Procedure:

The key to a successful and long-lasting dental implant is the quality and quantity of jawbone to which the implant will be attached. If bone loss has occurred due to injury or periodontal disease, a sinus augmentation can raise the sinus floor and allow for new bone formation.

In the most common sinus augmentation procedure, a small incision is made on the premolar or molar region to expose the jawbone. A small opening is cut into the bone, and the membrane lining the sinus is pushed upward. The underlying space is filled with bone grafting material, either from your own body or from a cadaver. Sometimes, synthetic materials that can imitate bone formation are used. After the bone is implanted, the incision is stitched up and the healing process begins. After several months of healing, the bone becomes part of the patient’s jaw and dental implants can be inserted and stabilized in this new sinus bone.

If enough bone between the upper jaw ridge and the bottom of the sinus is available to stabilize the implant well, sinus augmentations and implant placement can sometimes be performed as a single procedure. If not enough bone is available, the sinus augmentation will have to be performed first, then the graft will have to mature for several months, depending upon the type of graft material used. Once the graft has matured, the implants can be placed.

The sinus graft makes it possible for many patients to have dental implants when years ago there was no other option besides wearing loose dentures.

what is Socket Preservation Procedure?

Preserving Your Jaw Bone after Extraction

Removal of teeth is sometimes necessary because of pain, infection, bone loss or fracture of the tooth. The bone that holds the tooth in place (the socket) is often damaged by disease and/or infection resulting in deformity of the jaw after the tooth is extracted. In addition, when teeth are extracted, the surrounding bone and gums can shrink and recede very quickly after the extraction resulting in unsightly defects and collapse of the lips and cheeks.

These jaw defects can create major problems in performing restorative dentistry whether your treatment involves dental implants, bridges or dentures. Jaw deformities from tooth removal can be prevented and repaired by a procedure called socket preservation. Socket preservation can greatly improve your smile’s appearance and increase your chances for successful dental implants for years to come.

Several techniques can be used to preserve the bone and minimize bone loss after an extraction. In one common method, the tooth is removed and the socket is filled with bone or bone substitute. It is then covered with gum, artificial membrane or tissue stimulating proteins to encourage your body’s natural ability to repair the socket. With this method, the socket heals eliminating shrinkage and collapse of surrounding gum and facial tissues. The newly formed bone in the socket also provides a foundation for an implant to replace the tooth. If your dentist has recommended tooth removal, be sure to ask if socket preservation is necessary. This is particularly important if you are planning on replacing the front teeth.

Restore Your Smile and Jaw Health with Bone Grafting

Experience the transformative benefits of bone grafting procedures for major and minor bone deficiencies. Regain a confident smile and optimal oral health with dental implants placed on a foundation of newly grown bone.

Call us: 850-562-6111

Periodontal Associates of North Florida

5 out of 5 stars based on 32 Bone Grafting reviews.

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Last year, I was referred to Periodontal Associates of North Florida, and from my very first phone call with them, I sensed that I had found an exceptional place for dental care. Dr. Colon and his remarkable team go above and beyond when it comes to professionalism, courtesy, and genuine friendliness—qualities that are unfortunately becoming rarer in today's world. They make you feel like their sole focus, taking the time to explain and break down the necessary care and treatments in a clear and understandable manner. Eventually, I faced an extensive procedure that involved a corticotomy, bone grafting, and several other components. Needless to say, I was quite apprehensive, as I had heard from others who had undergone even just one of these procedures that it could be quite painful. My anxiety had built up to the point where I almost postponed the procedure. However, I'm incredibly grateful that I didn't. I prayed about it, and from the moment I stepped into the building at 6:30 a.m. on the day of the procedure, I felt a profound sense of calm. The receptionist was warm and welcoming, not treating the early hour as an inconvenience (which can unfortunately be the case at some businesses). Everyone who assisted Dr. Colon during my procedure seemed like angels sent from above. Even when Dr. Colon had to start my IV line, he did so with remarkable skill. I'm typically a challenging case when it comes to finding veins, but Dr. Colon's expertise made it a breeze. Despite the extensive and detailed procedure, which took several hours and was expected to be painful, I didn't experience any discomfort during or after it. Additionally, Chelsea did an outstanding job with the packing. This "family" at Periodontal Associates of North Florida has now become the regular dental care providers for my entire family. If you're someone who has been putting off dental work due to anxiety, encounters with rude and unprofessional staff, or if you're simply looking for a change, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Colon and his team of true professionals.

- Tomica J

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I’ve been a patient here before but this was my first experience with Dr. Colo’n and I have to say it was very pleasant. I immediately liked Dr. Colo’n and his staff and knew I was in good hands. Great people and service all around.

- Ramona W

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

This was my first visit to the office. I felt as though all my concerns were listened to and questions addressed. Beautiful office, friendly, and accommodating staff. I felt as though they truly cared about my experience.

- Renee J

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

On this past Thursday I went in for a cleaning and I told Becka that I was in a lot of pain in the lower back of my mouth. She had Dr. Guzman come in and see me and told me she could fix the problem. I had the procedure the next day. When I arrived Friday I was nervous and in serious pain. I can honestly say that today one day after the procedure I feel 100% better. Sure I hurt a little and am a little swollen but the comparison to what I felt before and after is unbelievable. Dr. Guzman is a true artist in her profession and I am truly lucky to have her as my Doctor. Thank you Doctor. Robert

- Robert A

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The entire staff was fantastic. We really appreciated Trish helping us get the appointment and information from our dentist in Indiana so the issue could get taken care of quickly.

- Marty B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I was very impressed with how friendly and sincere the staff was. When I got home I told my wife how much I liked everyone and how professional I was treated. Thanks. I was also impressed with all the technology that was used to treat me.

- John H

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I was referred to Periodontal Associates because I have a generalized anxiety disorder and needed a wisdom tooth extraction. The staff was wonderful and very friendly and helpful. They made me very comfortable and I was provided with conscious sedation. I would definitely recommend anyone to see these very professional and sweet individuals!

- Rebecca H

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

My visit experience was great will recommend

- David J

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Very competent and friendly staff great hygienist A caring environment as well as competent

- Ann

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Overall one of the greatest dental experiences I've ever had. Plus they are so great at suggestions for future care. Simple ways to clean or floss or even the best toothpaste. Just feel great after leaving.

- Rhonda S

5 out of 5 stars on