Bone Grafting
What is Bone Grafting
Bone grafting involves adding bone material to an area of the mouth where it is missing. Bone grafts are often needed prior to other treatments and procedures, like dental implants. If the procedure relies on solid, healthy bone mass, a bone graft may be necessary before continuing treatment. Bone grafting is a relatively common dental procedure with a high success rate.
Why is Bone Grafting needed?
Bone loss can occur for a variety of reasons, but is most often common among patients with periodontal (gum) disease. When bone loss occurs, it can make other dental procedures more difficult and even affect the look of your face. Patients with bone loss may have a sunken-in appearance while experiencing ill-fitting dentures. If you want implants placed, bone grafting can build up the underlying structure so that the implants heal successfully.
What makes you a good candidate for Bone Grafting?
Prior to a bone grafting, you will come into our office for a consultation and exam. With the help of special imaging and x-rays, we can determine if you have bone loss and to what extent the bone is missing. Bone grafting requires oral surgery, so you should be healthy enough to heal from the procedure. Bone grafting is done in-office and we can discuss sedation options with you prior to the actual surgery.
What happens during the Bone Grafting procedure?
You will first receive anesthetic or sedation of your choosing. We can discuss sedation options with you before the surgery begins. A small incision is made through the gums so that we can expose any underlying bone. Bone material is then placed in the area that needs it and a growth factor is used to help seal and bond the material with the existing bone. You will then have sutures placed in the gums and be instructed to come back in so that the graft can be checked. The procedure is done safely, easily and relatively quickly in our office.
If you think you might need a bone grafting or would like to learn more about this procedure, call our office today and we will answer all of your questions.