Bone grafting is required when a patient does not have a sufficient amount of healthy natural bones in their mouth that are capable of supporting the dental implants. When choosing between bone grafts there is the choice of onlay bone graft or guided bone regeneration. What's the difference? Which is better?

1. Onlay Bone Graft

A onlay bone graft is where a small amount of bone is required and can be transferred from one part of the jaw to another. Bone can be taken from the chin or the back of the jaw and transferred to where it is needed. It will then be fixed into position with small pins and screws which will be removed when the dental implants are placed.

2. Guided Bone Regeneration

Guided Bone Regeneration is a technique that provides space for new bone using barrier membranes. These spaces can then be filled with new, guided bone growth. In terms of predictability in results guided bone regeneration is the most reliable and valid procedure.

3. Difference between onlay bone graft and guided bone regeneration?

Onlay bone graft uses a section of bone from another area of your body and using a special bone grafting material, and graft it onto your jaw bone. Whereas guided bone regeneration Guided bone regeneration is a predictable procedure which is used to increase the amount of bone volume.  Though It is not really bone grafting as your own bone is not being moved from one site to another.

4. Which is better?

Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, but which method is suitable for you will depend on the situation of your teeth and the advice of dental professionals. Before going ahead with a dental implant dental professionals will advise accordingly which method is more suitable for our case.