S.M.A.R.T.™ Bone Grafting vs. Traditional Methods: Key Differences

When you’ve decided to have a missing tooth replaced, it can be devastating to discover that your jawbone isn’t healthy enough to handle the implant. 

Bone grafting is usually the most suitable choice in this case, but perhaps you’ve already heard about how difficult the recovery process can be. As a result, it may be time to discuss S.M.A.R.T.™ grafts. 

At Ueno Center Dental Specialists, we’re always looking for better treatment options for our patients, ones that provide the necessary care while still allowing them to recover easily and safely. 

Jeremy K. Ueno, DMD, as well as the rest of our team, have seen a number of benefits with S.M.A.R.T. grafting over traditional methods, and we want to give you the 411.

Let’s break down these two types of bone density treatments to give you a clear idea of why dental professionals perform them and how they differ, so you can make the best decision for your oral health. 

Why you might need bone grafting (and why that can be scary)

Bone grafting may sound like a severe procedure, but it’s actually very common in the United States, with over 20 million procedures performed annually. 

Why is this the case? Let’s start with tooth replacement. Having a tooth replaced when it’s been lost is aesthetically and physically beneficial. It can make you feel more like yourself and make eating and talking easier. 

In addition, missing teeth is an indicator for poor oral health and mental well-being. In fact, missing one or more teeth has been linked to dementia in older adults. 

Whatever the reason, it’s often a better move to replace missing teeth. But due to periodontal and dental decay associated with poor oral health, jawbone density can sometimes be affected. 

You won’t be able to have a missing tooth replaced if your jawbone isn’t strong enough. This is why bone grafting is often necessary before tooth replacement. But the process can be scary because it requires general anesthesia, and recovery can be uncomfortable. 

S.M.A.R.T. grafting vs. traditional grafting: The key differences 

Luckily, S.M.A.R.T. bone grafting makes the entire process easier. S.M.A.R.T. stands for subperiosteal minimally invasive aesthetic ridge augmentation technique. This refers to the incisions we make to replace the lost bone density. 

With traditional methods, the incisions are large, generally making recovery harder, longer, and more painful. But with this newer technique, we make smaller, minimally invasive incisions, meaning you won’t experience as much pain and swelling. You’ll be able to recover faster and with less difficulty. 

If you’ve been worried about bone grafts because of the way your mouth will look, S.M.A.R.T. may also be more effective for your needs. And the end result will look more aesthetically pleasing, as it avoids the larger scars that come with larger incisions.

Still, we can’t discuss the differences without mentioning cost. Some insurance plans don’t cover S.M.A.R.T., while others cover a portion of it. This procedure also tends to be more effective for those who are getting dental implants and those who are in generally good health. 

But, of course, the final verdict of whether you’re a good candidate will depend on your consultation. 

Is S.M.A.R.T. bone grafting better? 

We hesitate to say one process is better than another because every patient has different needs. But if you’ve been dreading the possibility of a long, painful recovery after bone grafting surgery, you may want to consider this alternative. 

Make an appointment today at our Campbell, California, office. Just visit us online or call. We’ll be happy to help you make the best choice for your overall oral wellness.