Everything You Should Know About Dental Bone Grafting

If you’ve lost a tooth, you may have heard bone grafting mentioned as a possible first step before getting a dental implant. While the idea of oral surgery might sound scary, in reality, bone grafting is a routine procedure used widely in the dental field. Whether your dentist is preparing your mouth for a dental implant, you are experiencing bone loss from gum disease, or you have suffered an injury to the jaw, bone grafting might be a safe and effective option to restore your dental health and create a healthier, happier smile.

Dental Specialties Northwest offers unparalleled care in dental bone grafting procedures backed by years of continued education and experience. Our team ensures a seamless process, from initial consultation to recovery, while prioritizing your comfort with spa-like amenities. We provide personalized treatment in a luxurious setting, making your journey toward a healthier smile stress-free.

What is Dental Bone Grafting?

A dental bone graft is a surgical procedure in which an oral surgeon or periodontist repairs or rebuilds the jawbone by adding additional bone tissue. A graft is typically used when there is bone loss or the jawbone needs extra support for a dental implant.

There are four main types of dental bone grafts that can be used based on the type of bone material and where it comes from, including:

• Autografts: This is the preferred method of bone grafting, as the transplanted bone tissue comes from your own body.
• Allografts: In allograft surgery, bone tissue is taken from another person or a cadaver. 
• Xenografts: Xenografts use transplanted tissue from another species, such as a cow, pig, or coral reef.
• Synthetic: Non-living material, such as calcium phosphate or bioglass, is used in place of organic bone grafts.

While bone grafting is not always necessary to prepare the jawbone for a dental implant, it can effectively provide additional support for those who suffer from low bone density. An NIH study cites that nearly 50% of all dental implant surgeries require bone grafting in preparation.

Also, patients who have gum disease are at higher risk of losing bone as a result of their gum disease. If untreated, gum disease can begin to affect the surrounding gums and teeth, causing further bone loss and potentially leading to heart disease. If you experience tooth loss due to gum disease, it is critical you contact a dentist to create a treatment plan that fits your needs and gets your mouth back to optimum health.

What To Expect During Bone Grafting Surgery?

While every surgery is unique to the needs of each patient, you will likely experience some common steps during your bone grafting procedure. These steps might include:

• Anesthesia: You will likely receive a local anesthetic to numb the area so you are as comfortable as possible during your bone grafting procedure. Nitrous oxide or oral anesthesia might also be an option to help keep you calm and relaxed if you are feeling anxious about the surgery.
• Incision: The oral surgeon or periodontist will make an incision in the gum to access the area that requires grafting.
• Cleaning: The bone will be cleaned, and any infected tissue will be removed to prepare the site for grating. 
• Bone grafting: The bone graft is then secured to the jawbone using specialized screws and plates.
• Closing: The surgeon will finish the procedure by stitching the incision closed to promote healing.

The new bone material will fuse to the jawbone as the bone heals, creating additional support and structure. Initial healing typically takes about a week, but the overall healing process can take anywhere from three months to a year, depending on the size of the bone graft. 

Trust Dental Specialties Northwest for Your Bone Grafting Needs

Dental Specialties Northwest prioritizes your comfort and dental health in every aspect of care, including bone grafting. With years of advanced training and a commitment to innovative techniques, our team works to provide effective, safe solutions tailored to your individual needs. From personalized consultations to a seamless recovery process, we ensure you feel supported every step of the way.

With our spa-like amenities and the convenience of a 5-star hotel nearby, we strive to make your experience as stress-free and comfortable as possible. Whether you’re preparing for dental implants or addressing bone loss, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve your healthiest, happiest smile. Call us at 253-367-4936 or visit our contact form to schedule your consultation today.