06
Nov
Dental Bone Graft: An Overview
There are a few reasons you may consider getting a dental bone graft. If you had severe periodontal disease, then you may have lost some bone density in your jawbone. You may also consider a dental bone graft to increase the bone density in your jawbone to prepare your jaw for dental implants. Regardless of the reason for your dental bone graft, there are a few things you will probably want to know about this procedure.
Getting a dental bone graft
The jawbone may not be thick enough or it may be too soft for a dental implant. There may also not be enough bone to hold the remaining teeth if the patient has had periodontal disease. The chewing action of the mouth can place a great amount of force on the bone. If there is not enough bone density, then a dental implant surgery could fail. It could also cause the remaining teeth to loosen. Getting a dental bone graft allows there to be a strong base for a dental implant.
Materials used in dental bone grafts
Depending on the patient’s individual needs, the dentist will choose from a variety of materials for rebuilding the patient’s jawbone. One option can be a natural bone graft. This will come from another area on a patient’s body, such as the hip bone or the back of the jaw. Another option is a synthetic substance that can provide support for new bone to grow on.
A xenograft uses bone material from an animal, generally a cow. Sometimes, the dentist may choose to use donor bone from another human. The dentist will be able to explain the advantages and disadvantages of each of these types of bone graft materials.
Healing from bone graft surgery
The recovery period from a dental bone graft will depend on the condition of the patient’s jaw and how much bone was transplanted. Generally, the initial recovery time is about two weeks. Patients will most likely receive antibiotics after surgery.
It is extremely important for patients to take these medications as directed. This can help to minimize the risk of infection, which can potentially cause the dental bone graft to fail. Patients may also receive prescription pain medications to help minimize any potential discomfort, and it is important not to take more than necessary. After the surgery, it can take several months for the new bone to integrate and grow with the existing bone. Unless the patient only needed minor bone grafting, the patient will most likely need to wait for several months before getting new bone grafts.
Visit a dentist today
No matter why you might be considering a dental bone graft, understanding more about it can help you make an informed decision. It can also help you mentally prepare for this procedure. Following the dentist’s instructions after surgery can help ensure that you heal quickly and will be ready for any additional procedures after the surgery. Contacting a dentist today is the first step in rebuilding your jaw.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drelloway.com or call Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc at (530) 527-6777 for an appointment in our Red Bluff office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Will I Need a Bone Graft for Dental Implants in Red Bluff, CA.
Randal Elloway, DABOI, FAAID
Dr. Elloway has a Bachelor’s in Biology from La Sierra University and a DDS from Loma Linda University, and brings over 30 years of dental experience to his practice in Red Bluff. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and Northern California Dental Society. Dr. Elloway is committed to continuous learning and compassionate care, and volunteers internationally to help needy patients.