Is Distraction Osteogenesis a Better Option than Bone Grafting

Alex asks:
My dentist advises me that I have bone loss which may necessitate bone grafting before implants. I have been looking into the issue and have found the distraction osteogenesis option may be more suitable for me.

I have the following questions: Does the bone regenerate much quicker than grafting, thus allowing for earlier implantation? Which option is the more expensive? Which option is the more reliable; i.e. the fewer complications and the better base for the implants?

Answered by: Dr. Michael Tischler

Woodstock, NY

Dear Alex,

When a patient has severe bone loss, either distraction osteogenisis or utilizing "block grafts" of your own bone are viable options. These are both advanced grafting techniques that will require a clinician that has experience in doing these procedures.

The time period for these techniques to allow for adequate healing is similar. It would be 4-6 months before an implant could be placed into the healed area.

I find in severely compromised bone, I would rather wait longer than rush things. This increases predictability of the outcome. As far as expense, reliability and complications; it would really depend on which clinician is performing the procedure.

These are questions that only the clinician performing the procedure can answer. They are both comparable procedures with regards to results though.