Dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth. But for dental implants to be successful, there must be enough bone in the jaw. If you don’t have enough jawbone, bone grafting surgery may be necessary to restore bone density.
Restore Bone Density & Improve Implant Candidacy With Bone Grafting
Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and have become increasingly popular over the last several years. The success of dental implants depends on having enough strong, healthy bone to support them. If you don’t have enough bone density in your jaw, you may not qualify for dental implants. But there is hope! Bone grafting in San Diego is a procedure that can restore bone density and improve your candidacy for dental implants.
What is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure performed by a periodontist that replaces missing bone to support a dental implant. The bone grafting procedure generally involves inserting a bone grafting material underneath the empty socket of the missing tooth. The new bone can come from your own body (autograft), from a donor (allograft), or from a synthetic material (xenograft). Once the bone graft is placed, your body stimulates bone regeneration to restore optimal bone density.
How Bone Loss Occurs
When you lose a tooth, the bone that supports that tooth starts to resorb or be reabsorbed by your body. The process of resorption can happen quickly, sometimes within the first few months after tooth loss. That’s why it’s so important to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. If you delay the dental implant procedure or wear dentures for a few years, you will suffer from considerable bone loss, for which you may later need bone grafting.
“My wife was a patient of Dr. Mirkhan and received your such good care with her implants, crowns and cleanings I then started going to Dr. Mirkhan while she was in Poway. Dr. Mirkhan has performed bone grafts, implants, crowns, extractions, cleanings and now I am having my bottom teeth straightened. I can’t say enough how I appreciate the professional and caring Dr. Mirkhan has been to me, she is just the best. My wife passed and I will continue going to Dr. Mirkhan and highly recommend her to everyone.”
What Are The Benefits of Bone Grafting?
One of the major benefits of bone grafting in San Diego is that it improves your chances of successful dental implants. When you lose a tooth, the bone in that area begins to deteriorate. This can cause the surrounding teeth to shift, making it difficult to place dental implants. A bone graft can help to preserve the bone and make it easier to place implants.
Another benefit of bone grafting is that it can help to improve the appearance of your smile. If you have missing teeth, bone loss can cause your face to look sunken. This can make you look much older than you actually are. A bone graft can help to fill in the missing bone and give your face a more youthful appearance.
Types of Bone Grafting for Dental Implants
Socket Preservation
When a tooth is removed, the socket (the hole where the tooth was) begins to collapse. This can lead to bone loss and instability of the surrounding teeth. To prevent this, your oral surgeon may recommend a socket preservation procedure. This involves placing bone grafting in San Diego material into the socket immediately after the tooth is removed, which, in turn, preserves your jawbone and improves your ability to get implants later.
Sinus Lift
A sinus lift is often necessary when placing implants in the upper back teeth. The sinuses are located just above the teeth in this area, and if there is insufficient bone, the implant can end up in the sinus. A sinus lift involves raising the sinus floor and adding bone to the area. This is done by making an incision in the gum tissue and then lifting the sinus membrane. Bone is then grafted into the area, and the incision is closed.
What to expect from the procedure
Bone grafting is a routine procedure performed by a periodontist under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case and your preference. Your oral surgeon will discuss the best anesthesia option for you during your consultation. The surgery involves making an incision in the gum to access the jawbone, placing the bone graft material into the affected area, and securing it. The gum is then sutured closed.
What is the recovery process like?
Recovery from bone grafting surgery typically involves some swelling, bruising, and minor discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs. It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, but complete healing and bone integration may take several months. Your oral surgeon will monitor your progress during follow-up visits to ensure the graft is healing correctly.
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Bone Grafting FAQs
How do I care for the graft site after surgery?
Proper care of the graft site is crucial for successful healing. Follow these guidelines:
- Avoid touching or disturbing the graft site.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing your teeth and avoiding the graft site.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash as prescribed by your surgeon.
- Stick to a soft diet for the first few days and avoid chewing on the graft site.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can impede healing.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor progress.
What are the success rates of bone grafting?
Bone grafting success rates are generally high, ranging from 90% to 95%, depending on factors like the patient’s health, the type of graft used, and adherence to aftercare instructions.
Will I experience pain after a bone graft?
Some discomfort and pain are expected after a bone graft, but it is usually manageable with prescribed pain medications and over-the-counter pain relievers. Swelling and bruising are also common but should subside within a few days. Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions will help minimize discomfort and promote faster healing.
How do I know if I am a candidate for bone grafting?
You may be a candidate for bone grafting if:
- You have insufficient jawbone density to support dental implants.
- You have experienced bone loss due to missing teeth, periodontal disease, or trauma.
- Your oral surgeon determines bone grafting is necessary for your dental goals.
A thorough evaluation, including a dental examination and imaging studies, will help your oral surgeon determine if bone grafting is suitable for you.
When is it too late for bone grafting?
It’s generally not “too late” for bone grafting as long as there is a need for it and enough healthy bone or space to work with. However, the timing can be crucial. Delaying bone grafting after tooth loss can lead to significant bone loss, which might require more extensive procedures. A consultation with your dentist or oral surgeon is necessary to determine if you’re a good candidate.
How long does a bone graft last?
A bone graft can last indefinitely if it successfully integrates with the existing bone and there are no complications. The grafted bone should become part of your natural bone structure within a few months, providing a stable foundation for dental implants or other treatments. Regular follow-up and good oral hygiene are essential to maintaining the graft’s longevity.
Why Choose Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center?
Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center is a state-of-the-art dental clinic specializing in cutting-edge implant techniques. Our Scripps-affiliated cosmetic dentist uses the latest and safest dental technologies and techniques to address your specific goals and concerns, helping you achieve and maintain the perfect teeth. Schedule an appointment to explore your options for bone grafting in San Diego.
