Bone grafting allows people with limited bone tissue to receive dental implants. The consequences of poor oral hygiene extend far beyond bad breath and yellow teeth. Patients may lose their teeth if they do not address oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease as soon as possible. They may suffer from bone loss if they live with missing teeth for an extended period. While bone tissue loss cannot be reversed, bone grafting can aid in the creation of a stable and robust foundation for dental implants, allowing patients to reclaim their smiles.
Dental implant surgery is typically done in stages. The damaged tooth is first extracted. The jawbone is then prepared for surgery. At this point, bone grafting may be performed. A bone graft is a surgical procedure that replaces and regenerates missing bone while restoring proper facial contour. When teeth are lost due to trauma, rot and decay, or injury, there is often some bone loss, and the bone around the jaw begins to deteriorate. If this is the case, bone graft provides a more solid foundation for a dental implant.
Why is Dental Bone Grafting required?
Why is Dental Bone Grafting required?
A bone graft is not necessary for everyone. Bone grafting is only required if the jawbone has deteriorated to the point where it can no longer adequately support the dental implant. Bone grafting ensures that the jawbone is thick, dense, and wide enough to support the screw inserted by the dentist during the dental implant procedure.
What to expect before a dental bone graft is placed?
What to expect before a dental bone graft is placed?
Your dentist will conduct an oral examination to assess the condition of your teeth, gums, and jaw. Dental X-rays or scans will be taken to determine the extent of your bone loss. After that, your dentist will discuss your treatment options and develop a customised treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
What to expect during the procedure?
What to expect during the procedure?
The bone grafting procedure is typically performed in a hospital or surgeon's office, depending on the patient's specific circumstances and the graft size required. The dentist begins by taking an X-ray of the patient's mouth and using the images to create a model for the procedure. Patients should consult with their doctor about the surgery and anaesthesia options. The oral surgeon usually uses local anaesthesia or IV sedation during the procedure.
The oral surgeon first removes the bone from another part of the body, such as the hip or the back of the jaw. If the patient refuses to use their bone, the oral surgeon can use synthetic bone-like grafts. The surgeon then makes an incision in the graft area before inserting the bone piece and screwing it. The surgeon may place a membrane over the integrated bone to make stitching the incision easier.
What to expect after the Bone Grafting procedure?
What to expect after the Bone Grafting procedure?
After the bone grafting surgery, the patient will feel some discomfort and pain. As a result of the procedure, their face may swell. The individual may also notice some bleeding and facial/sinus pressure. To alleviate pain, the dentist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication. They may also prescribe an antibiotic to the patient to reduce the risk of infection. Applying ice to the affected area can help relieve pain, stop bleeding, and reduce swelling.
Patients should drink plenty of fluids and avoid smoking to ensure success. They should also avoid eating or drinking anything salty, spicy, or acidic, as these can irritate the wound. Patients should also avoid mouthwashes and use a simple saltwater rinse daily to clean the area. Individuals who have grafting surgery should not skip meals but should stick to soft foods, smoothies, and soups. They must also maintain proper oral hygiene for the wound to heal properly. Patients should refrain from engaging in strenuous activities that could disrupt the surgery site.
Post Bone Graft and Implant Procedure
Post Bone Graft and Implant Procedure
While time-consuming, bone grafts can be an important part of any implant process. Patients may experience typical discomfort following surgery, such as gum or skin swelling, bruising, and minor bleeding, but these common side effects subside quickly. There are also some dietary restrictions, such as only eating soft foods while the mouth heals after each bone graft and implant procedure stage.
Sleeping after surgery
Dentists recommend that patients sleep on their backs with pillows to raise their heads. Elevating the head lowers the risk of blood pooling at the site of the bone graft, reducing inflammation and swelling. If the patient cannot sleep on their back, they should avoid sleeping on the side where the bone graft was placed.
In short, when performed by an experienced surgeon, bone grafting procedures and dental implants may be time-consuming, but the result is worth the wait: healthy teeth and a smile anyone can be proud of.
