Much like how knee surgery of the past has been updated with a less invasive approach involving small incisions and laparoscopic tools, so has bone grafting for the oral cavity. Dr. Lauren Anderson is S.M.A.R.T (Subperiosteal Minimally invasive Aesthetic Ridge augmentation Technique) certified and trained by its founder Dr. Ernesto Lee. With this technique, Dr. Lauren Anderson is able to offer less invasive options to predictably regenerate lost bone. S.M.A.R.T. indications include bone growth prior to implant placement (congenitally missing teeth, ridge atrophy, trauma etc.) and jaw expansion for orthodontic patients who do not have adequate bone thickness to allow for tooth movement.
In the above image, please note the before and after grafting radiographic images of a patient seeking implant therapy. The jaw bone is surrounded by cortical bone shown as a curved white line (upper image) and is insufficient for implant placement, the new jaw bone as the larger area of white to the lateral of the initial outline (lower image) now a surplus of bone noted for ideal implant placement. This case, courtesy of Dr. Ernesto Lee, is an example of the results that are routinely reached with this grafting technique. The patient reported little to no discomfort and minimal swelling after the procedure. Bone requires 6 months to heal prior to the next phase of therapy, implant placement.
For a consultation with Dr. Lauren Anderson or to see if you are a candidate for this new grafting technique, please contact Anderson Periodontal Wellness at (248) 480-4910.
