Adults with gum disease or who have lost teeth may be in a need of a bone graft to restore the jawbone. Severe bone loss in the jaw impacts appearance and the likelihood that tooth replacements will stay in place. A dental graft is a minor procedure that stimulates new bone growth. The procedure is common and has only a low risk of complications, including the material falling out.
Depending on how severe the bone loss and the causes of loss, a dentist may recommend one of three types of graft procedures. A block bone graft takes bone from the back of the jawbone, close to where wisdom teeth are found. A socket graft can be completed when a tooth is extracted and uses bone from the same area in an effort to prevent bone loss. A sinus lift occurs when top molars have been lost and the sinus moves downward into the space left between the teeth. The lift restores the sinus to its position and uses a graft to repair the teeth.
Dental hygiene is important for tooth health, and it also promotes strong gums free from disease and infection. Periodontitis is a condition that can severely affect the health of both the gums and the teeth. Loss of adult teeth increases the risk of bone loss in the jaw.
A dental graft exposes the existing bone to tiny pieces of bone material, creating new bone cells and growing bone where it is most needed. Patients needed dental implants often undergo grafting to prepare the jaw as a stable base for the new teeth.
Most often, a dental or gum graft is performed by a dental specialist. Graft material may be taken from either animal or human donors, though it may also come from the patient. A small incision is made in the gum, and the graft material is placed inside. The incision is then sutured closed.
Following a graft, a patient may experience some discomfort. The incision in the gums may cause soreness, but pain can be managed through ice and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs. There are low risks of bleeding, infection, or the development of a blood clot. As the graft is made up of many tiny particles, a patient may experience small particles in their mouth in the days following surgery.
It is normal for a small amount of the graft material to fall out of the incision site, but by following postoperative instructions, a patient can prevent total graft displacement. Patients are generally instructed to abstain from vigorously spitting or rinsing for the first three to five days after a procedure. They should avoid pulling or lifting the lip to examine the stitches and should not apply any pressure to the site.
A dental bone graft may be necessary to prevent further bone deterioration or to prepare for dental implants. Consult with a qualified dental specialist to reduce the risk of complications.
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