Who is a Candidate for Dental Bone Grafting?

A dental bone graft is often required for individuals who have experienced the loss of bone in their jaw. This procedure may be recommended if you:

• Are undergoing tooth extraction.

• Intend to replace a missing tooth using a dental implant.

• Require jaw reconstruction before getting dentures.

• Have experienced bone loss in areas due to periodontal disease.

Procedure Detail on Dental Bone Grafting 

Examination: Your dentist will conduct an oral examination to assess the condition of your teeth, gums, and jaw. Dental X-rays or scans will be done to gauge the bone loss level. Afterward, they will talk to you about the treatment options and develop a tailored plan that fits your requirements.

Anesthesia: The patient will be given local anesthesia to numb the area to put the patient to sleep.

Incision: the dentist will make a small incision in the gum to expose the jawbone.

Harvesting bone: If an autograft is used, the surgeon will take a small piece of bone from another part of the patient’s body, such as the hip or the tibia. The surgeon will place the cadaver bone into the jaw if an allograft is used.

Placement of graft: The harvested bone is then placed into the jaw and secured in place with small screws or other fixation devices.

Closing the incision: The gum is then sutured closed over the graft.

Care After Dental Bone Grafting 

After a dental bone graft procedure, it is common to experience pain, swelling, and bruising, which are normal side effects. These symptoms should typically subside within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. 

Additionally, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics for you to take, and it is essential to follow the instructions and take them exactly as directed.

During the early stages of healing, you may also observe tiny fragments of bone appearing from the graft site, which often resemble grains of salt or sand.

Good oral hygiene is important to promote healing and prevent infection. The patient should brush, floss regularly, and avoid smoking and eating hard foods the first few days.

It is recommended to contact your dentist for clarification to ensure that your healing process is proceeding as expected and ensure proper integration of the graft.

Summary

Dental bone grafts are a highly effective way to rebuild and prepare the jawbone for dental implants. By following the proper aftercare instructions, patients can ensure a successful outcome and return to a healthy, functional smile. If you have concerns about your jawbone structure or need a bone graft, schedule a consultation with Dr. Razavi, a cosmetic dentist in Philadelphia, to discuss your options.