The integrity of your jawbone is crucial, especially in procedures that need dental implants. This means that the jaw bone needs to be both strong and healthy, but only some people have sufficient natural bone to support the implants. The location where the procedure is to be performed, the general health of the patient, and the requirements of the specific dental procedure are some of the considerations that affect the choice of the material for a synthetic bone graft. Synthetic bone grafts come to the rescue.
Synthetic bone grafts are bioengineered materials built to replace the properties of normal bone. The materials mainly consist of ceramics, polymers, or a combination of both. Primarily, the most common include:
Calcium Phosphates (Hydroxyapatite and Tricalcium Phosphate)
The fact that these are the major natural constituents of bones makes them usable in synthetic bone grafting. They are biocompatible and easily integrate with the natural bone tissue.
Bioactive Glass
This consists of a composition of silica, calcium, and phosphorous elements that provide a frame for new bone formation. It also actively releases ions to stimulate natural bone tissue regeneration.
Polymers
Polymers, such as polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), can be used to form biodegradable scaffolds to support new bone growth. The polymer slowly degrades and resorbs in the body during healing, leaving the newly regenerated bone.
Composites
Composites are combinations of ceramics and polymers that try to combine the best properties of both. They offer the structural support of ceramics while allowing them to maneuver with the flexibility and degradability of polymers.
Calcium Sulfate
Commonly known as plaster of Paris, it forms a material of choice, given the fact that its resorption is rapid and easy to use. It is also combined with other materials to enhance the ability of bone regeneration.
At our dental office, we realize that your dental health is a top priority, and we use advanced synthetic bone grafts for our patients. If you are a candidate for dental implants or any other procedure that might require a bone graft, be sure to speak with us. Contact us to set up an appointment with us today on how the use of synthetic bone-grafting material can benefit you.
The integrity of your jawbone is crucial, especially in procedures that need dental implants. This means that the jaw bone needs to be both strong and healthy, but only some people have sufficient natural bone to support the implants. The location where the procedure is to be performed, the general health of the patient, and the requirements of the specific dental procedure are some of the considerations that affect the choice of the material for a synthetic bone graft. Synthetic bone grafts come to the rescue.
