The ReBuilding
of Facial Structure for Best Support
If you’re missing teeth or bone in your upper jaw, bone graft may be able to stimulate the bone growth needed to reshape the jaw and prepare it for dental implants.
Restoring and maintaining facial bone structure is important for several reasons. Our jaws and other facial bones support our skin and muscles that are responsible for our outward cosmetic appearance. Without the support of the underlying bone, our faces can look prematurely aged.
What is Bone Grafting?
A common side effect of untreated periodontal disease (advanced gum disease) is bone loss. If this is the case, your dentist may suggest a bone graft. Bone grafting is a relatively minor surgical procedure that aids in growing new bone.
The graft may be taken from another area of your body, a donor, an animal, or made of synthetic materials. The bone graft material typically consists of processed bone minerals that help your body create new bone cells over time.
When Is Bone Grafting Necessary?
We we learned earlier, periodontal disease contributes to bone loss, add long-term buildup of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) due to missed semi-annual dental cleanings, the gums become irritated and begin to separate from your teeth, forming deep “pockets” below the gum line. Over time, plaque and tartar collect in these pockets.
If you do not get your teeth cleaned professionally, the disease will eventually result in soft tissue and bone loss. A bone graft is the only effective treatment option to recover damaged and lost bone.
Gum Disease Is Found
Severe neglect of your oral hygiene can cause bone loss through gum disease. If not corrected, your dentist may recommend a bone graft to fix the problematic areas.
Not Enough Bone For Implants
In order for dental implants to be secured into your jaw, there needs to be enough supporting jaw bone matter. Any loss of bone around the teeth will need to be replaced for the proper insertion of dental implants.
Dental Trauma
Constant grinding and clenching of teeth can cause excess wear on the tissue supporting tooth structure. The constant pressure can also lead to fractured or cracked teeth. Trauma can also include a tooth getting knocked out from an accident or a fall.
Bone Graft Aftercare & Healing Process
You will be given general anesthesia before a bone graft procedure, which puts you into a deep sleep. This ensures you do won't feel anything during the procedure.
However, after a few hours, the medication will wear off. Post-operative pain is normal but should go away after a few days. Experiencing discomfort for a few weeks is very common as the healing process begins.
During this time, it is essential to only eat soft foods while your mouth heals, such as mashed potatoes, oatmeal, smoothies, cooked vegetables, and scrambled eggs.
Normal side effects of a bone graft procedure
Gum swelling
Skin swelling or brusing
Minor bleeding
Difficulty eating, speaking, and chewing
Bone loss can be caused by several different circumstances, but one thing is for sure: a bone graft is a great alternative for repairing and building new bone. Bone grafting is usually a relatively comfortable office procedure.
At Rock River Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we have successfully performed bone grafts in the Rockford, IL area. We are committed to each of our patients and are happy to help anyone recover their perfect smile. If your dentist has recommended a bone graft Rock River Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center is here to help!
