Whether caused by lost teeth, gum disease, or injury, bone loss costs you more than just bone density. Your jaw structure could be compromised. Your teeth might not function as well. Even your appearance can change, leading to premature aging.
Dental bone grafting offers a safe and effective way to get back everything lost to this process. Grafting can help regenerate bone tissue, supporting your oral health and paving the way for a confident, lasting smile. Explore the possibilities and learn how this innovative procedure can make a difference for you.
Before the procedure, our dentist will evaluate your oral health and review imaging to determine how much bone you’ve lost and where you need grafting. This step ensures that we tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs. We may also discuss the type of graft material we’ll use.
During the procedure, we carefully prepare the target area to receive the graft material. Our dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. The chosen graft material is then placed in the area and securely positioned to encourage it to integrate with your natural bone. Depending on the case, we may use a protective membrane to cover the graft and prevent interference from surrounding tissues.
After the bone graft is placed, the healing process begins. Over several months, the graft material works to stimulate the body’s natural bone regeneration process, gradually fusing with the existing bone. During this period, our dentist will monitor your progress through follow-up visits to ensure proper healing. Once the graft has fully integrated and the bone is strong enough, your jaw is ready to support a dental implant or further restoration.
Many dentists, like us, recommend bone grafting as a crucial step in creating a stable foundation for dental implants. When you lose significant bone density to factors like tooth loss, periodontal disease, or injury, you may not have enough healthy bone to securely anchor an implant.
Bone grafting addresses this issue by restoring density to your jawbone. Over time, the graft will merge with your existing bone. It also stimulates more natural bone growth. That combination can give you the strength and density you need to support a durable, long-lasting implant. By ensuring a strong starting point, this procedure increases the success rate of dental implants as well as enhances your overall oral function and aesthetics.
Dental bone grafting is generally not very painful, as the procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with pain relievers and following your dentist’s care instructions.
Aside from dental implant candidacy, a dentist might recommend bone grafting to preserve the jawbone after a tooth extraction, preventing bone loss in the area. Additionally, it may be used to address bone deterioration caused by gum disease, helping to restore oral health and structure.
Yes, bone can grow back after a bone graft. The graft material stimulates the body’s natural bone regeneration process, helping to rebuild and strengthen the area over time.
No, you are typically not put to sleep for a dental bone graft. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area and ensures you remain comfortable while staying awake.
Dental bone grafting is a safe and effective procedure that plays a vital role in both your current and future oral health. You can restore what you’ve lost and prepare your mouth for future treatments like dental implants. With proper care and guidance, the process can help strengthen your jawbone, improve functionality, and support a confident smile.
If you’ve been told to consider a bone graft or have questions about whether it’s right for you, Meridiana Family Dental is here with answers and support. Take the first step toward restoring your oral health today.
