Bone Grafting

Bone Grafts Are Most Commonly Used

TO RESTORE CANDIDACY FOR IMPLANTS

One of the roles of tooth roots is to stimulate the jaw, which signals that nutrients are needed in the area. When you lose a tooth, your brain reroutes essential nutrients away from that area of the jaw.

The longer a tooth is missing, the more likely it is that the jaw will begin to atrophy. Over time, this tissue loss can affect the stability of other teeth, cause further tooth loss, and give your face a sunken, aged appearance.

After a certain point, the jaw loses so much tissue that placing implants is no longer an option without first performing a dental bone graft.

How do I know if I qualify for a bone graft?

Modern Techniques Make

BONE GRAFTING RELATIVELY PAINLESS

Thanks to careful planning and minimally invasive techniques, bone grafting is predictable and results in minimal discomfort. In addition to local anesthetic, which numbs the treatment area, your dentist may be able to provide sedation. Options such as nitrous oxide, oral medication, and intravenous sedation are safe and reliable.

How does bone grafting prepare you for an implant?

Discomfort and Swelling Is Common,

BUT SHOULDN’T LAST LONG

You may experience some discomfort after your bone grafting procedure. You can manage pain using over-the-counter or prescription medications. Swelling and bruising are normal side effects for the first few days.

During the healing process, you should:

Avoid salty, crunchy, and spicy foods
Stick with a soft diet for at least the first 24 hours
Follow all of your doctor’s instructions
Take medication as prescribed
You can reduce swelling during recovery by keeping your head elevated and using icepacks or warm heat. Most doctors recommend getting a lot of rest for the first three days.

Bone grafting is safe and effective, with long-lasting results.

It Takes at Least Three Months

FOR A GRAFT TO STABILIZE COMPLETELY

For most patients, it takes three to six months for the grafted tissue to fuse with the jawbone. For sinus lifts, the recovery period is typically longer, taking about six to nine months.

Once your graft has integrated with your jawbone, you should experience increased stability. If you need implants, your doctor can schedule an appointment to place them as soon as your graft has healed completely.

I’m not sure I understand what a graft does…

Your Body Uses Grafted Tissue

AS A SCAFFOLD TO REBUILD ITSELF

“Bone grafting is possible because bone tissue has the ability to regenerate completely if provided the space into which it has to grow. As natural bone grows, it generally replaces the graft material completely, resulting in a fully integrated region of new bone.” – The Journal of Pharmacy & Bioallied Sciences

Is a bone graft my only option?

Some Patients May Choose

AN ALTERNATIVE TYPE OF IMPLANT

If you want to enjoy the benefits of dental implants without undergoing bone grafting, ask your dentist if they offer All-on-4® or mini implants. These treatments often do not require preparatory procedures such as bone grafting.