Can an implant be placed when there is not enough bone?
Often yes, depending on the case. A bone graft or a sinus lift can rebuild the volume needed, sometimes before the implant, sometimes at the same time.
Dental implants
After a tooth is lost, the bone that supported it tends to shrink, especially when the extraction took place long ago. When an implant is being planned, the height or thickness of the bone may therefore be insufficient to hold it securely.
Several techniques exist to address this. A bone graft involves adding bone or a filling material to rebuild the missing volume. In the upper jaw, around the molars, the sinus is sometimes too close: a sinus lift then creates the space needed.
Depending on the situation, these procedures are carried out at the same time as the implant or a few months beforehand, which lengthens the overall treatment. In some cases, shorter implants or a different position make it possible to avoid a graft.
Only an examination with an X-ray, often in 3D, can measure the available bone precisely. The dentist then explains what is possible, the steps and the timescales to expect in your case.
This is a general answer. Only a consultation at the practice can tell what suits your situation.
Other questions in this section
- What is a dental implant?
- Should I choose an implant or a bridge?
- Does having an implant placed hurt?
- How long does implant treatment take?
- How long does an implant last and how should I look after it?
- What affects the cost of an implant?
- The treatment in detail : Dental implants
- See the whole section
- All frequently asked questions