Anyone missing a tooth is at risk for bone loss. As you lose bone structure, your jawbone becomes weaker and unable to support some tooth replacement options, like dental implants. Your dentist may recommend a bone graft to help stimulate bone generation and create adequate support.
Bone grafting is a routine way to improve your dental health. However, it’s important to understand the procedure to make an informed decision regarding your treatment.
What Is a Dental Bone Graft?
A dental bone graft addresses bone loss by transplanting bone tissue into the jaw. The grafting material can come from your bone, a donor, or an artificial source. After the material integrates with the jaw, it creates a strong and stable foundation for a dental implant or other dental treatment such as bridges and partial dentures.
Bone grafting is also helpful for patients with gum disease, facial trauma or injury, and development defects on the jawbone. Our team of professionals will check your jawbone to determine whether you will benefit from this procedure.
The Bone Grafting Process
Bone grafting is a specialized procedure performed under local anesthetic. Once the anesthesia takes effect, a small incision in the gums, creating instant access to the underlying bone.
After the artificial or natural bone is placed in the grafting site, the area is typically closed with sutures(stitches). This procedure often takes approximately one hour to complete.
Some patients experience swelling and minor discomfort after treatment, but these issues can be treated with medication. Recovery times vary between patients, but it can take up to two weeks for you to begin feeling normal again.
Is Bone Grafting Right for You?
If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth, find out whether bone grafting is right for you. Call David W. Piper, DMD Family Dentistry, at (727) 548-7100 to schedule a consultation.
Dr. Piper is a General and Cosmetic Dentist who has proudly served Pinellas County since 1993. Both he and his team of professionals provide high quality, gentle dental care in a relaxed, personalized, and caring environment. Treating patients like family sets his practice apart from others.
