Have you been weighing up the possibility of a dental implant? If so, then chances are that you have come across bone grafting. But what is it, and why is this procedure necessary for implants to be successful? This article will provide insight into how crucial bone grafts can be in making sure your implant goes smoothly -just like every other component.
What is a bone grafting procedure?
If your existing bone is not strong enough to support a dental implant, bone grafting may be an option. Your dentist will take a piece of your own healthy bone tissue from either the chin or hip area and transplant it into the area where you need an implant. Once the bone tissue has healed properly, then they can place the dental implants in that specific spot. In some cases, synthetic bone graft material or animal tissue may be used instead of human tissue for this procedure.
Why Is bone grafting for dental implants necessary?
If you lack sufficient jaw bone tissue at the site of insertion due to a condition like gum disease, your dentist may suggest undergoing a bone graft to ensure successful implantation. This procedure helps rebuild lost bone and stimulates growth that allows for the secure placement of an implant. Fortunately, advancements in dental technology have made this process easier than ever before!
What are the benefits of bone grafting?
By having a bone graft prior to your dental implant procedure, you’ll not only increase the chances of success with fewer complications down the road; but also say goodbye to any future revision surgeries, as your site will already have been reinforced before placement. Furthermore, there’s no need to wait too long for healing since once your grafted area has recovered, you can move forward in getting that much-needed implant promptly!
Bone grafting and recovery timeline
Adding a dental bone graft procedure to your dental implant treatment plan will inevitably prolong the overall process. Typically, it takes 4-12 months for the grafted area to heal properly, and several additional visits are necessary in order to make sure that healing is progressing as expected.
Aftercare tips for a bone graft procedure
Manage pain and prevent infection
To maximise the effectiveness of your procedure and prevent infection, it is essential that you take the medication within a few hours after surgery or use an over-the-counter pain reliever if desired.
Control bleeding and swelling
Naturally, some bleeding is expected during the initial two days after surgery. To help reduce it, just cover the area with a tea bag or moistened gauze and firmly bite down on it for 20-30 minutes continuously.
Follow diet restrictions
Following surgery, it is wise to consume soft foods such as jello, yoghurt, pudding and mashed potatoes for the first few days.
Know when to contact the oral surgeon
It is typical to feel some swelling, discomfort and bruising on the gum tissue post-bone grafting; however, if you encounter any of the following warning signs, please reach out to your healthcare provider immediately: marked fever, uncontrollable pain, persistent bleeding, medication allergies or when the area around the surgery appears warmly swollen days after.
If you have any questions about bone grafting, please set up an appointment with our professional dentists at Broadford Dental Clinic or call us on (03) 5749 1208. We’ll be delighted to help you achieve your perfect smile.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
What you need to know about dental bone grafts
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-bone-graft#takeaway
Guide to dental Implants
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide-expectations-dental-implants
