16
Dec
How Does a Dentist Know When a Bone Graft is Necessary?
Your dentist may recommend a bone graft to restore the appearance of the jaw or to help ensure the successful placement of dental implants. Not all dental implants patients require a bone graft, but it may be necessary if a patient has experienced bone atrophy in the jaw or lost bone due to periodontal disease.
Bone graft procedure: when is it necessary?
A dental bone graft is a common procedure performed as a part of dental implants. In many cases, it is necessary to ensure the dental implants fuse properly with the jawbone for the secure hold of the dental restoration (crown, bridge, or complete denture). The following is a closer look at the purpose of a bone graft and when it is recommended.
What is a dental bone graft?
A dental bone graft is a minor surgical procedure that restores the jawbone density after bone loss occurs due to periodontal disease or atrophy following the loss of teeth. This procedure involves taking bone from another part of the body (autogenous) or from a human tissue bank (allograft). This procedure is most commonly performed in preparation of dental implants placement following the loss of teeth.
A bone graft before dental implants placement
As mentioned, a bone graft is most commonly recommended before the placement of dental implants. This is important as it helps ensure the implants are adequately supported. Otherwise, there is a higher risk of implant failure, which complicates the treatment process.
How a dentist determines if a bone graft is necessary
To determine if a bone graft is necessary, dentists conduct an oral examination and order dental X-rays, which provide a clear idea of the density of the jawbone and reveal if there has been any loss of bone inside of the jaw. If the dentist determines that the loss of bone causes an oral health or cosmetic concern or complicates the implant process, then a bone graft may be recommended.
What to expect after a bone graft procedure
Patients typically heal within a few months after a bone graft procedure, and any discomfort they experience should go away within a few days. A check-up visit is typically to help ensure there are no underlying complications that need to be addressed.
If the patient is receiving a bone graft in preparation for dental implants placement, then it can be around four months until the jawbone is ready for the implants. Once the jawbone has fully healed, then the placement of the implants can be scheduled. After the implants are placed, it can take time for osseointegration to take place. Afterward, the restoration is placed.
Find out if a bone graft procedure is right for you
If you believe you have experienced bone loss in the jaw and want to find out if a bone graft is right for you, call our team today and schedule a visit. Whether you simply want to achieve a jaw that looks full or are considering dental implants, our team can help you make informed decisions.
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.