Distraction Osteogenesis

Distraction osteogenesis is an advanced surgical technique used to gradually create additional bone in certain areas of the jaw or facial skeleton. Rather than moving a section of bone to its final position all at once, the process allows the bone to be repositioned slowly while the body forms new bone in the developing space.

For carefully selected patients, this approach can help address certain jaw differences, facial skeletal conditions, or areas where additional bone is needed. Because the change happens gradually, the surrounding tissues have time to adapt along with the bone.

Treatment is carefully planned around the patient's anatomy, condition, and surgical goals. Our oral surgery team will explain whether distraction osteogenesis is appropriate for your situation, how the process works, and what you can expect at each stage of care.

If distraction osteogenesis has been recommended or you would like to learn more about your treatment options, contact our office to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Distraction Osteogenesis

What is distraction osteogenesis?

Distraction osteogenesis is a technique that uses the body's natural ability to make new bone.

During treatment, two sections of bone are gradually separated. As the distance between them increases, the body develops new bone in the space. That bone is then allowed to mature and strengthen before treatment is considered complete.

What happens during treatment?

Treatment generally begins with surgery to prepare the bone and position a specialized distraction device.

After a short healing period, the device is adjusted gradually according to the treatment plan. These small adjustments slowly move the bone toward the desired position while new bone forms between the segments.

Once enough movement has been achieved, adjustments stop and the new bone is given time to become stronger. The distraction device can then be removed when appropriate.

Is distraction osteogenesis different from traditional jaw surgery?

Yes. Traditional corrective jaw surgery commonly involves repositioning the bone during a single operation. With distraction osteogenesis, the planned movement takes place gradually over a period of time.

Neither method is automatically better for every patient. The right approach depends on the type of skeletal problem, the amount of movement needed, age, anatomy, and other treatment considerations.

Your oral surgeon will review these factors before recommending an approach.

Will I feel pain during distraction osteogenesis?

Appropriate anesthesia is used during the surgical procedure so you remain comfortable while treatment is performed.

Some swelling, soreness, or tenderness is expected afterward, as with many oral surgical procedures. Patients may also notice pressure or temporary discomfort as the distraction device is adjusted.

We will provide instructions for managing discomfort and caring for the surgical area throughout recovery.

Why might distraction osteogenesis be recommended?

For certain conditions, distraction osteogenesis provides a way to create new bone while gradually changing the position or dimensions of the jaw.

Depending on the individual case, it may offer advantages such as:

• Creating the patient's own new bone
• Allowing larger skeletal changes to occur gradually
• Helping surrounding soft tissues adapt as the bone moves
• Avoiding a separate bone donor site in some cases
• Building bone in areas that may later support additional treatment

Your surgeon will explain which of these benefits may apply to your specific situation.

Does distraction osteogenesis require additional appointments?

Yes. Follow-up is an important part of treatment.

During the distraction period, we need to monitor how the area is healing, make sure the device is working as planned, and evaluate the progress of the bone movement.

You may also receive instructions for making small adjustments to the device at home. We will show you exactly what to do and answer any questions before you begin.

Will the distraction device need to be removed?

In many cases, yes.

After the planned movement has been completed, the device generally remains in place while the new bone strengthens. Once your surgeon determines that healing has progressed appropriately, the device can be removed.

The timing and removal process depend on the type of device and the treatment being performed.

Can distraction osteogenesis help rebuild lost jawbone?

It may be an option in selected cases.

When part of the upper or lower jaw does not have enough bone, distraction osteogenesis can sometimes be used to gradually develop additional bone in that area.

In certain situations, this newly created bone may help prepare the jaw for future treatment such as dental implant placement.

A detailed evaluation is needed to determine whether distraction osteogenesis or another bone-building procedure would be more appropriate.

Will there be a visible scar?

That depends on the surgical approach being used.

Many oral distraction procedures can be performed through incisions inside the mouth, which can help avoid visible facial scarring. Other situations may require a different surgical approach.

Before treatment, your surgeon will explain where the incisions will be made and what you can reasonably expect as the area heals.

Can distraction osteogenesis be performed on both younger and older patients?

Distraction osteogenesis may be considered for patients at different stages of life.

Age is only one part of the decision. Your surgeon will also evaluate skeletal development, bone quality, medical history, the condition being treated, and the goals of surgery.

Healing and bone development can occur at different rates from one patient to another, so the treatment timeline is individualized.

How long does distraction osteogenesis take?

The total treatment time varies.

There is typically an initial healing period after surgery, followed by the gradual distraction phase. Once the desired amount of movement has been reached, the new bone needs additional time to mature and become strong.

Your surgeon will give you a more specific timeline based on your procedure and how your body responds to treatment.

Does insurance cover distraction osteogenesis?

Insurance benefits depend on your individual plan and the reason the procedure is being performed.

When treatment is medically necessary, some plans may provide coverage, but deductibles, exclusions, authorization requirements, and patient responsibility can differ significantly.

Our team can help you review available benefit information and provide the documentation your insurance carrier may request before treatment.

Learn Whether Distraction Osteogenesis Is Right for You

Distraction osteogenesis is a specialized treatment and is only recommended when it makes sense for your particular condition.

During your consultation, our oral surgery team will evaluate your needs, explain your treatment options, and walk you through the recommended next steps so you can make an informed decision about your care.

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