Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that helps regenerate your lost bone structure to restore the normal anchorage and support offered to teeth and restorations like dental implants. The gum specialist in Dieppe, NB, and their expert team perform bone grafting in a comprehensive manner with utmost patient compliance.
Read on to know everything about bone grafting, its procedure, and its benefits.
What is bone grafting?
Bone grafting is a dental surgical procedure that is performed to help with the insertion of dental implants to increase the stability of the implant. Loss of a tooth over a prolonged period can negatively impact the underlying jawbone, leading to ridge resorption. Improper ridge height cannot favor the insertion of dental implants. To give the dental implants the best chance of success, the jaw they are fused into must be healthy and sturdy.
Why do you need bone grafting?
Bone grafting may be recommended if you:
Are having tooth extraction
Plan to get a dental implant for teeth replacement
Need to rebuild the jaw before getting a denture
Have areas of bone loss due to gum disease
What happens before bone grafting?
Your gum specialist will evaluate your oral health by performing an examination. Dental X-rays will be taken to determine the extent of your bone loss. Your dentist will discuss the different treatment options with you and create a personalized treatment plan to meet your oral needs.
What happens during bone grafting?
Here is a comprehensive guide to the bone grafting procedure:
- The concerned area will be numbed with local anesthetic.
- Your dentist will begin with a small cut or incision in the gums to expose the jawbone.
- The area will be cleaned and disinfected with an antiseptic agent.
- An appropriate bone graft (artificial tissue) will be placed between two sections of the bone that need to grow together.
- The bone graft will be secured using special screws or adhesive material.
- A synthetic membrane may be used to cover the new bone.
- The incision will be closed by suturing the tissues.
What happens after bone grafting?
Following bone grafting you may experience mild pain, swelling, and bruising. These are temporary and resolve gradually over time. Your dentist may prescribe you painkillers and antibiotics for optimal healing and quick recovery.
What are the benefits offered by bone grafting?
Receiving a bone graft comes with several benefits discussed below:
- Supports the dental implants by providing a strong base to anchor the permanent restorations (crown, bridges, or dentures)
- Avoids alternative treatment options, even in those with compromised bone health
- Ensures implants last the test of time
- Since it is a minimally invasive procedure, the healing and recovery is quick
Do not ignore your jawbone health. Seek immediate dental care when you think bone loss is deteriorating your oral health.