Bone augmentation, also known as bone grafting or guided bone regeneration, is the insertion of a piece of the person’s own bone or additional materials into the empty spaces in the jawbone. Bone augmentation is a surgical procedure.
The purpose of bone augmentation is to provide support and stability for various dental or orthopedic procedures by increasing the volume or density of bone in a specific area. Bone augmentation is usually performed before dental implants if there is insufficient bone strength or if there are deficiencies.
In 2022, Turkey experienced a substantial surge in medical tourism, welcoming over 1.1 million international visitors, according to data from the Turkish Ministry of Health. This underlines Turkey’s growing recognition as a sought-after destination for medical treatments.
It has been observed that 40% of these tourists choose Turkey for dental treatments, which shows how strong and advanced the country is in dental treatments and procedures. The success of Turkey in the field of dental tourism can be attributed to its state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, highly skilled dentists, and the diverse cultural experiences that the country offers to its visitors.
Bone grafting becomes necessary in situations where the jaw lacks the necessary density, such as before dental implant surgery. In addition, tooth extractivities, trauma, orthopedic procedures, advanced periodontal disease and congenital defects may also require bone grafts.
The tooth root is attached to the gum and the gum is attached to the jawbone. The jawbone surrounds the tooth roots and keeps them safe. When a tooth is lost, a cavity forms in the jawbone where the tooth root is located. This cavity becomes inactive when no new tooth erupts and can become weak and thin over time. In dental implant applications, such weak areas in the jawbone need to be filled and this is called bone augmentation.
There are various techniques for bone augmentation, including the use of different materials such as autograft (the patient’s own bone), allograft (donor bone), xenograft (animal bone) or synthetic materials. The method chosen depends on the specific needs of the patient and the nature of the bone loss.
The field of dentistry offers a range of innovative procedures to address bone deficiencies and restore oral health. From bone grafting to guided bone regeneration, these techniques play a vital role in dental bone augmentation and facilitate successful dental implant placement.
Bone grafting procedures are commonly used to augment or regenerate bone in areas where it is lacking. This technique involves taking bone from another part of the body, a donor source, or using synthetic materials and placing it in the target area. By promoting new bone growth, bone grafting creates a solid foundation for dental implants and supports long-term oral health.
Dental bone augmentation encompasses various techniques aimed at increasing the volume and density of the jawbone. This procedure is often necessary when the natural bone structure is insufficient for implant placement. By adding bone or bone-like materials, dentists can enhance the jaw’s strength and stability, enabling the successful integration of dental implants.
Jawbone augmentation surgery focuses on restoring the jawbone’s shape and size, particularly after significant bone loss or trauma. This procedure often involves combining bone grafting techniques with other regenerative methods to rebuild the jawbone’s structure. By improving bone density and volume, jawbone augmentation surgery provides a stable foundation for various dental treatments.
Bone regeneration techniques, including osteogenic procedures, aim to stimulate the body’s natural ability to grow new bone tissue. These methods utilize biocompatible materials and growth factors to promote bone regeneration and fill defects or gaps. By harnessing the body’s healing potential, dentists can successfully restore bone volume and support dental implant placement.
Alveolar ridge augmentation addresses bone deficiencies in the ridge area, which can occur due to tooth extraction or periodontal disease. This procedure involves adding bone grafts or synthetic materials to the ridge, creating a stable and suitable site for dental implant placement. Alveolar ridge augmentation ensures optimal aesthetics and functional outcomes for patients requiring implant-supported restorations.
Maxillary sinus floor augmentation, also known as sinus lift surgery, is performed when the upper jaw lacks sufficient bone height for dental implants. This procedure involves lifting the sinus membrane and adding bone grafts to the sinus floor. By increasing bone volume in the posterior maxilla, dentists can successfully place implants and restore oral function.
Guided bone regeneration utilizes barrier membranes and bone grafts to promote the growth of new bone in targeted areas. This technique creates a protected environment that allows bone cells to regenerate and populate the deficient site. Guided bone regeneration is particularly useful in cases where bone volume is limited or compromised.
Socket preservation surgery aims to maintain the dimensions of the tooth socket after tooth extraction. This procedure involves placing bone grafts or other regenerative materials into the socket to minimize bone loss and preserve the surrounding bone structure. Socket preservation surgery sets the stage for future dental implant placement and ensures optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes.
Osseous reconstruction procedures encompass various techniques aimed at restoring and reshaping the jawbone. These procedures involve bone grafting, guided bone regeneration, and other regenerative methods to address significant bone loss or defects. Osseous reconstruction procedures provide a solid foundation for dental rehabilitation and improve overall oral health.
In conclusion, advanced bone augmentation procedures are essential in restoring oral health and supporting successful dental implant placement. From bone grafting to osseous reconstruction techniques, these interventions address bone deficiencies and create a stable foundation for dental restorations. By harnessing regenerative methods, dentists can transform the oral health and quality of life for their patients.
There are various types of bone grafts and the choice depends on the specific needs of the patient and the intended use of the graft. The main types of bone grafts include autograft, allograft, xenograft, synthetic or artificial bone graft and alloplastic graft.
Autografts: These usually involve the use of bone from the patient’s own hip, jaw or other area to be bone grafted. Autografts are considered the gold standard for bone grafting as they provide living, viable bone with natural growth potential.
Allografts: Allografts use bone from another human donor. Allografts serve as a suitable alternative when it is not possible to use the patient’s own bone.
Xenografts: Xenografts involve the use of bone, typically from animals such as cattle (cows). They are easily available and have a high success rate. It can fuse with the transplanted bone site and provide healing.
Alloplastic Grafts: Alloplastic grafts are made from synthetic materials such as polymers or metals.
Choosing Turkey for bone graft surgery offers an attractive combination of quality healthcare and cultural experience. The country welcomed more than 1.1 million medical tourists in 2022 and has proven its success in the medical field with positive feedback. Turkey has skilled dentists and modern healthcare facilities that provide high quality and cost-effective dental care. Istanbul is an ideal location for those seeking advanced medical services and rich cultural experiences.
Bone grafting procedures involve the following key steps:
The processes begins with x-rays or CT scans to assess the extent of bone loss and determine the optimal approach for grafting.
The patient is anesthetized for a painless surgery. The type of anesthesia varies depending on the complexity of the grafting procedure.
A donor is prepared according to whichever of the autograft methods is chosen and is shaped according to the graft area.
The prepared graft is then placed in the target area. The graft can be fixed with screws, pins or other fixation devices.
Once the graft is in place, the surgical site is closed with sutures.
After the bone graft procedure, a period of time is required for the graft to integrate with the existing bone. The duration of this period varies depending on the type and size of the graft as well as individual healing factors.
The cost of dental bone grafting varies depending on certain factors. The location of the tooth, the number of grafts, the need for extraction, oral health status and jawbone density are the main factors that affect the cost of the procedure.
For example, the cost of grafts to anterior teeth differs from grafts to molars. The cost increases as the number of grafts needed increases or additional procedures such as extractivities are required. Synthetic bone grafts usually start at $300 per implant and can cost up to $1,000 or $1,200. Autograft costs can range from $2,500 to $3,500.
On the other hand, bone graft surgery fees in Turkey are quite affordable compared to Europe or the USA. In Turkey, bone graft costs can start from 300 dollars and go up to 1,000 dollars. In addition, considering that you can visit the beautiful touristic spots offered by Turkey and especially Istanbul, it is advantageous to choose Turkey for dental surgery.
Turkey offers many perks and benefits to foreigners coming for medical treatments. Here are the top reasons why Turkey is a good catch for dental treatments and other medical treatments:
Turkey stands out in attracting thousands of foreigners for dental treatments. The dental surgeons in the field are certified by the board and highly experienced. They undergo rigorous evaluations through numerous assessment tests before joining the industry. Among the well-known hospitals for dental treatments in Turkey are Avicenna Hospital, Memorial Hospital, Medical Park Hospital, Liv Hospital, and others.
One of the advantages of coming to Turkey for medical treatment is that you don’t have to deal with long visa queues. Most foreigners, especially Europeans, can enter Turkey visa-free with just a valid ID card. This saves you a lot of time and allows you to plan your travel with less hassle.
The Ministry of Health announced the VAT exemption for foreigners visiting Turkey for medical treatment in 2018. This is a government incentive to boost medical tourism in Turkey and provide convenience to foreign patients. Therefore, if you are a foreigner coming to Turkey for medical treatment, medical services are exempt from VAT. The total profit generated by the medical tourism sector so far this year is $1,033,942.
A notable advantage of opting for Turkey is the swift appointment processes, sparing you the ordeal of waiting for months or even years. Despite catering to hundreds and thousands of patients each season, every individual receives consistent attention and care. The appointment procedures are streamlined, ensuring a prompt and hassle-free experience.
Istanbul, Turkey’s bustling metropolis, serves as a major transit hub with a multitude of daily flights. Securing flight connections to virtually any global destination from Istanbul is remarkably convenient. Additionally, most flights from European countries to Istanbul boast a mere 3-hour duration. Consequently, international visitors can enjoy the seamless accessibility of traveling to Turkey.
Affordability Factor: A paramount advantage of selecting Turkey for medical treatments lies in its cost-efficiency. Medical procedures in Turkey are priced at approximately 70% to 80% lower than those in other countries like the US or the UK. Furthermore, those interested can explore comprehensive medical tourism packages covering everything from flights to treatment and accommodation, enhancing the overall affordability.
If you are considering Turkey for bone grafting surgery, here is the processes of booking an appointment for your treatment. The processes is as follows:
The first primary step to start the processes is reaching out to us and sharing your information.
One of our team members will take down your details including your contact details and medical history.
Here are the tests our representative will ask you to share with them via WhatsApp or email:
Once our doctors are satisfied with your test results, we will help you sort out your flight to Turkey and your itinerary.
It doesn’t matter which airport you land at we will be there to pick you up and take you to the hotel.
We will arrange your hotel transfers as well to make sure you are sorted throughout your trip.
Once you arrive at the hotel, our doctors will welcome you and prepare you for certain tests.
Although we have asked you for certain tests before, our doctors run another set of tests to be safe.
The following tests will be performed before the surgery:
If the doctors are satisfied with your test results, they prepare you for the surgery.
On the day of the surgery, you are transferred to the hospital and welcomed by the staff at the hospital.
After the surgery, you may have to stay in the hospital for a short while for doctors to monitor your condition.
This is just a preventative step to make sure you are recovering fine.
You may have to revisit after a few days for a follow-up appointment with the doctor.
Once your doctor gives the go-ahead, we will transfer you to your designated hotel.
The hotel provides a wide range of amenities and luxuries to make sure you are comfortable throughout your stay.
What services does our dental filling package include?
Here is a complete list of services our treatment package includes:
Bone grafting is a generally safe and recently popularized dental procedure, but like any surgical intervention, it can have potential risks. Some of the risks associated with bone grafting include:
Proper care after bone grafting is crucial for a successful recovery. General guidelines on how to care for the bone graft are given below:
Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing your teeth, and avoiding the graft site. If your dentist has recommended mouthwash, use as directed.
Dietary Restrictions: Avoid hard, sticky, crunchy, acidic or very hot or cold foods.
Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol: Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake as it can negatively affect the healing processes.
Minimize Physical Activity: Do not over-exert your mouth during the initial healing period to avoid complications.
Report Your Concerns: Contact your dentist if you notice signs of infection, increased swelling, persistent bleeding, or other unusual symptoms.
Yes, you can brush your teeth after a bone graft, but it is very important to do so gently and avoid the graft site.
Bone grafting surgery is performed under anesthesia and you will not feel any pain. Although postoperative discomfort is common, the prescribed medications are successful in minimizing this pain.
After the procedure, you are told that the graft placed into your bone feels like a small particle like a grain of sand. This is quite normal, especially synthetic grafts can give such a feeling due to their structure.
For fast recovery after a bone grafting procedure, follow your doctor’s instructions, maintain good oral hygiene, follow dietary restrictions, avoid smoking, limit alcohol intake and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider.
Stitches are usually used to stabilize the graft site after a bone graft. They usually fall off spontaneously a few days after surgery.
Contrary to popular belief, dental bone graft surgery is a surgery with a very high success rate, and thanks to the specialized dentists in Turkey, the satisfaction rate is also quite high.
The healing processes after bone grafting may vary according to the type of graft applied to the person, the area where the graft is positioned, and the healing capacity of the person. The recovery period for bone grafting surgery usually ranges from two weeks to two months. However, if you will have a dental procedure such as an implant after the bone graft, it will take time for the bone graft to fuse with your existing bones, which can take up to three to nine months.
As DixiHealth, we provide health tourism in Istanbul. We work with the most reputable hospitals and specialized doctors in Turkey and closely follow your treatment processes. While taking care of your health procedures, we accompany you to enjoy pleasant moments in the fascinating atmosphere of Istanbul.
