When Bone Grafting Is Needed from an Implant Dentist for Tooth Replacement

Not every patient requires a bone graft procedure before tooth replacement from an implant dentist, but it may be necessary for certain situations. This review discusses the role of bone grafting in the implant dentistry process and what to expect before, during, and after a bone graft procedure.

Bone grafting from an implant dentist: when is it necessary?

A bone grafting procedure is needed when there is not enough healthy bone inside of the jaw to support the dental implant. During the consultation visit, the implant dentist and the patient can put together a treatment plan that helps the patient reach their goals for tooth replacement.

What is bone grafting?

Bone grafting (for dental purposes) is an oral surgery procedure that involves taking bone tissue either from another part of the body or donor bone tissue and grafting it to the area of the jawbone above or below where the implant will be placed. After the procedure, the bone must heal and grow properly in the jaw before the placement of the dental implant can be scheduled with the implant dentist.

The need for bone grafting before tooth replacement

Bone grafting is necessary when there is not enough bone tissue in the jaw to support dental implants. Otherwise, the risk of a failed dental implant is much higher. There are two main causes for this, which are:

• Bone loss caused by atrophy
• Bone loss due to gum disease

Bone atrophy in the jaw can occur as a result of the loss of a tooth (or multiple teeth). This is because the purpose of the jawbone is to support teeth, and without teeth to hold, the jawbone serves less of a role; dental implants restore this lost purpose. Perhaps a more common cause of bone loss is gum disease, also called periodontal disease, which can attack the supporting structures of teeth.

When bone grafting is not necessary before tooth replacement

Bone grafting may not be required before tooth replacement if the patient has not experienced bone loss in the jaw above or below where the tooth is being replaced. A dentist can determine the status of bone density with dental X-rays.

What to expect after your bone graft procedure

After a bone graft procedure, it can take a couple of months for the bone to properly heal. Once the mouth has healed properly, then a follow-up procedure is scheduled for the placement of the dental implant. Osseointegration must take place for the bone to fuse with the implant, and the restoration can be placed after osseointegration has taken place.

Bone grafting FAQs from an implant dentist

To ensure you have the most information possible before your visit with an implant dentist, here are some answers to common questions patients have about bone grafting.

Are there any risks with a bone graft procedure?

As is the case with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks associated with a bone graft procedure. These risks include the possibility of an infection, complications with anesthesia, and nerve damage, among other risks that your dentist can discuss in greater detail. However, with that said, complications from a bone graft procedure are incredibly rare and typically not serious when they do arise.

How can I prepare for my bone graft procedure?

Your implant dentist should provide instructions to follow before your procedure. This likely includes not eating for at least 12 hours before the procedure to help avoid complications with anesthesia. Since the mouth is likely to be sore for several days after the procedure, it is helpful to go shopping for water and soft foods before the procedure as well.

When can I return to normal activity?

There are several factors that impact when you can return to normal activity, such as what your normal day looks like, the level of pain and swelling after the procedure, and the type of sedation that is used. In general, patients are usually able to return to normal activity between one and three days after the procedure.

Put together your treatment plan during an implant dentistry consultation

An implant dentistry consultation offers a way for you to meet our implant dentist and the rest of their staff and determine if implant dentistry is right for you. We assist patients through the entire tooth replacement process, and we can start by determining if a bone graft procedure would be necessary before implant placement. Call us today to schedule your first visit.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysaratogadentist.com or call My Saratoga Dentist PLLC at (518) 675-3094 for an appointment in our Saratoga Springs office.

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