Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that replaces missing or damaged bone with material from the patient's body, a donor, or synthetic sources. In dentistry, bone grafting is often utilized to prepare the jawbone for dental implants by providing a stable foundation. It can also be used to restore bone loss due to periodontal disease, trauma, or congenital defects.

What To Expect

Before The Procedure

Before your bone graft at Gentle Dental, you will have a consultation with dental imaging (like X-rays or CT scans) to assess bone loss. Your dentist will review your medical history, discuss the type of graft material to be used, and explain the procedure steps. Pre-operative instructions will cover guidelines on eating, drinking, and medication. Sedation and anesthesia options will be discussed to ensure your comfort.

During The Procedure

You will be comfortable with local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia based on your treatment plan. The dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the bone area. The graft material, whether from your body, a donor, or synthetic, will be placed and secured. The incision will then be closed with sutures. The procedure usually takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on complexity. Afterward, you will receive detailed post-operative care instructions.

After The Procedure

Post-surgery, you might experience swelling, minor bleeding, and discomfort, which are normal and manageable with prescribed pain medications, ice packs, and rest. Follow your dentist's guidelines on managing discomfort and diet during the initial recovery period, avoiding strenuous activities and sticking to soft foods for a few days.

Recovery

Recovery can take several months as the graft integrates with your natural bone. Maintaining good oral hygiene and following your dentist's instructions on gentle brushing and rinsing are crucial to prevent infection. You will have follow-up appointments to monitor healing. The graft integration can take three to six months, after which you can proceed with further dental treatments like dental implants to restore your oral health and function.

Who Needs Bone Grafting?

A bone graft is typically performed to correct significant bone loss that less invasive procedures cannot correct. Bone grafting helps provide a stable foundation for dental implants and restore bone loss due to periodontal disease, trauma, or congenital defects. Ideal candidates for bone grafting typically include individuals who meet the following criteria:

Dental Implant Preparation: Patients who need additional bone to support dental implants due to insufficient jawbone density or volume.Periodontal Disease: Individuals with significant bone loss caused by advanced periodontal (gum) disease.Tooth Extractions: Patients who require bone grafting following tooth extractions to preserve the bone structure for future dental restorations.Trauma or Injury: Individuals who have experienced jawbone damage due to facial trauma or injury.Congenital Defects: Patients with congenital bone deficiencies or deformities in the jaw.

Sinus Lift Procedures: Candidates who need a sinus lift to add bone to the upper jaw for dental implant placement.

Bone Resorption: Those experiencing bone resorption (the natural breakdown and absorption of bone tissue) who need to restore bone mass.