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How does Bone Grafting Work?
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that aims to build up the bone in your jaw to provide a solid foundation for dental implants. This procedure is essential for patients who have insufficient bone mass due to tooth loss, gum disease, or trauma.
When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone can begin to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation. Without sufficient bone density and volume, placing a dental implant can be challenging or even impossible. Bone grafting helps to restore the bone to a level that can support an implant securely.
Benefits
Improves Implant Success Rate and Prevents Bone Loss
Bone grafting creates a strong, stable foundation for dental implants, significantly increasing the likelihood of successful implant healing while also preventing further deterioration of the jawbone.
Restores Jawbone Health and Facial Structure
By adding bone material, grafting helps restore and maintain the health and density of your jawbone, which also enhances your facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance that can follow tooth loss.
Expands Treatment Options and Boosts Confidence
With a stronger jawbone, you have more options for dental treatments, including implants, and restoring your smile can enhance your self-esteem and confidence.
How will it work?
For the skilled surgeons at EOS, the process all starts with the end goal in mind. What is the ideal number and location of dental implants to restore chewing and confidence of your smile? Working with your restorative dentist, they will evaluate the current condition of your jawbone and develop a tailored bone grafting plan. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works.
Assessment
Your oral surgeon will evaluate your jawbone through X-rays, CT scans, and a clinical exam to determine the extent of bone loss.
Graft Material
The graft can be sourced from your own body (autograft), a donor (allograft), animals (xenograft), or made from synthetic materials (alloplast). Different materials may be selected for different healing properties.
Surgery
The chosen graft material is placed in the area where bone augmentation is needed. This can be done using various techniques, such as socket preservation, ridge augmentation, or sinus lift, depending on the specific needs of the patient.
Healing
Over several months, the graft material integrates with your natural bone, a process called bone graft consolidation. This creates a stable base for the future dental implant.
Frequently
Asked Questions
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What is bone grafting?
Bone grafting is a procedure where bone material is added to your jawbone. This helps create a strong and solid foundation for dental implants, especially if you don’t have enough natural bone due to tooth loss, gum disease, or injury.
Why do I need a bone graft for dental implants?
Dental implants need a certain amount of bone to be securely placed. If your jawbone is too thin or soft, a bone graft can provide the necessary support for the implants to stay firmly in place.
What materials are used for bone grafting?
Bone grafting materials can come from various sources. They may be:
- Autografts: Bone taken from another part of your body.
- Allografts: Bone from a human donor.
- Xenografts: Bone from an animal, usually a cow.
- Alloplasts: Synthetic bone materials.
How is the bone grafting procedure performed?
The procedure involves making a small incision in your gum to expose the bone. The grafting material is then placed in the area needing reinforcement. The site is closed with stitches and left to heal, allowing the new bone to grow and integrate with your existing bone.
Is bone grafting painful?
Bone grafting is generally performed under local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, or IV sedation, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Afterward, you may experience some discomfort and swelling, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs.
How long does it take to heal from a bone graft?
Healing times can vary, but it typically takes several months for the graft to integrate fully with your natural bone. Your oral surgeon will monitor your progress and let you know when you’re ready for the dental implant.
Are there risks associated with bone grafting?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks, including infection, bleeding, and graft rejection. However, complications are rare, and your oral surgeon will take steps to minimize these risks.
What can I expect after the bone grafting procedure?
You might experience some swelling and discomfort for a few days. Follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions closely, which will likely include diet recommendations, oral hygiene tips, and activity restrictions to ensure proper healing.
Can everyone get a bone graft?
Most people in good overall health are candidates for bone grafting. However, certain conditions or habits, like smoking, may affect your ability to heal and integrate the graft. Your oral surgeon will evaluate your medical history and discuss any concerns with you.
How much does bone grafting cost?
The cost of bone grafting can vary depending on the extent of the graft and the materials used. During your consultation, your oral surgeon will provide a detailed estimate and discuss payment options and insurance coverage.
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule a consultation with EOS to learn more about bone grafting and how it can benefit your oral health.