Bone Grafting Explained
A bone graft uses granulated material in a specific area of the body
to promote new bone growth. In oral surgery, bone grafting rebuilds bone
in the jaw and is a common first step for many dental implant patients.
When a tooth is missing and not replaced, the loss does not stop at
the tooth. Over time, the bone underneath deteriorates. While many
patients with varying degrees of bone loss are candidates for dental
implants, those with insufficient bone may require a bone graft to
rebuild the lost bone and successfully support an implant.
The bone grafting material may be sourced from a bank (donor bone),
or your own bone may be used. Synthetic material is another option. Your
oral surgeon will review your options, including your options for
anesthesia, during your consultation appointment.
Types of Bone Grafting Procedures
Bone grafts restore the quality and quantity of bone in the jaw. The
type of bone grafting procedure you need depends on the location where
new bone is needed, severity of bone loss, and facial anatomy, among
other factors.
- Socket Preservation. Immediately after a tooth
extraction, an oral surgeon can place bone grafting material into the
empty tooth socket. This helps to ensure the quality of bone in the area
is sufficient for a future dental implant. This procedure is also known
as a ridge augmentation.
- Sinus Lift. The bony
area that separates the maxillary sinuses and the upper molars is very
thin. When teeth are missing near this area, the amount of bone may be
insufficient to support a dental implant. A sinus lift raises the sinus
floor and creates a thicker separation between the sinus and the upper
jaw. Once healed, a dental implant can be placed.
- Ridge Augmentation.
The alveolar ridge is the bone that supports the upper and lower arches
of teeth. Ridge augmentation may be performed one area after a tooth
extraction (socket preservation) or the entire ridge may require more
height/width.
- Nerve Repositioning. The inferior
alveolar nerve is found in the lower jaw and supplies feeling to the
lower lip and chin. If it is determined that a dental implant may damage
this nerve, repositioning before implant placement may be an option.
Since this surgical procedure is high-risk, other options are usually
considered first.
Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery performs the full
scope of bone grafting procedures. Our specialists welcome patients of
all ages and will help you find the right treatment option for you. Your
oral surgeon will complete a thorough oral evaluation and assess your
bone quality and facial structure with X-rays and 3D imaging. We look
forward to meeting you and providing you with an exceptional experience.
Comfort and Recovery After Your Treatment
Depending on the extent of your bone graft, your recovery can take
anywhere between two weeks and three months. During this time, it is
normal to experience some soreness and discomfort. To maintain your
comfort, your doctor may suggest OTC pain medication like Tylenol® or
Ibuprofen, along with antibiotics to help reduce the risk of infection.
Following your bone graft procedure, your surgeon will provide a list
of aftercare instructions that foster optimal healing and recovery.
This list will include what you can and cannot eat after the surgery,
how long you must avoid strenuous exercise, steps for keeping the bone
graft area clean and dry, and other helpful information.
One of the most critical aftercare recommendations is to avoid
smoking. Smoking will slow your body’s healing ability and affect your
recovery timeline.
