Distraction Osteogenesis: How It Works
In cases where patients have experienced significant bone loss, particularly in the upper or lower jaw, conventional implants may not be an option due to insufficient bone height or density. Distraction Osteogenesis provides an innovative solution by expanding the patient’s natural bone, stimulating the body’s own regenerative processes to grow new bone tissue.
Unlike traditional bone grafting, which often involves harvesting bone from another area of the body, this procedure uses the patient’s own bone, reducing risks associated with foreign material and encouraging faster, more natural healing. By carefully separating and gradually moving the bone sections, the technique allows the body to naturally fill the gap with healthy new bone, ensuring a stable base for dental implants.
At Smilo Dental Implants Birmingham, we specialise in Distraction Osteogenesis as an alternative to more complex bone grafting techniques, providing patients with a more efficient and effective route to successful dental implant results.
Key Steps in the Distraction Osteogenesis Process
- Comprehensive Evaluation & 3D Imaging – CT scans and X-rays are conducted to assess bone structure and determine if Distraction Osteogenesis is a suitable option.
- Surgical Fracture & Device Placement – A controlled, minimal incision is made in the jawbone, and a distraction device is
- carefully positioned.
- Natural Bone Regeneration – As the bone expands, the body naturally fills the gap with fresh bone, eliminating the need for external grafts.
- Device Removal & Implant Placement – Once the desired bone height is achieved, the distraction device is removed, and the site is prepared for implant placement.
- Healing & Final Prosthetic Restoration – A 3-6 month healing period follows, allowing the bone to fully integrate before the final implant restoration crown or bridge is placed.
Gradual Bone Expansion – The distraction device gently moves the separated bone fragment over a few weeks, creating space for new bone growth.
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Distraction Osteogenesis: Recovery, Benefits & Results
The recovery process following Distraction Osteogenesis is gradual, yet highly effective. Most patients experience minimal discomfort as the bone is expanded slowly—around 0.5mm to 1mm per day—allowing surrounding tissues to adjust with minimal trauma.
The major advantage of this technique is that it eliminates the need for traditional bone grafting, which often requires multiple surgeries and extended recovery times. By using the patient’s own bone, Distraction Osteogenesis ensures a more seamless integration and long-term stability for the dental implants.
If you’re facing bone volume loss and traditional grafting isn’t an option, Distraction Osteogenesis might be the solution for you. Schedule a consultation today to find out more and take the first step toward a fully restored smile.