What to Expect During a Dental Bone Graft
A dental bone graft replaces a missing or decayed bone in your jaw with grafting material, allowing your bone tissue to repair itself. Bone grafting is used to fix many jaw and dental issues.
While a dental bone graft might seem intimidating, here are some things you can expect before, during, and after your procedure:
1. Determining Which Dental Bone Graft You Need
First, you will have a consultation appointment with your doctor to determine which type of treatment you need. Your doctor will take a dental x-ray or scan to evaluate your teeth, gums, and jaw health.
Athens Oral Surgery Center offers four different types of dental bone grafts:
- Site/socket preservation grafts
- Particulate grafts
- Block bone grafts
- Major bone grafting
Each one is meant to treat different kinds of defects. Your doctor can help you decide which one is right for you.
Reasons for Bone Grafting
A missing adult tooth is one of the primary causes of jaw decay that requires a dental bone graft. After tooth loss, the bone begins to disintegrate due to a process called resorption. Some other reasons for a dental bone graft include:
- Gum disease
- Jaw injury
- Dental implant and denture fitting
- Adult tooth extraction
2. Undergoing the Dental Bone Graft Procedure
The bone graft process can vary depending on which type of graft you need, but steps typically include:
- Site sterilization
- Graft material placement
Graft material is either a special powder or bone that has been extracted from another area of your body.
Your doctor will administer local anesthesia or use general anesthesia depending on the procedure.
3. Recovering from the Dental Bone Graft Procedure
Recovery time from a bone graft can depend on the patient’s age, overall health, and the type of graft received. Many patients are able to eat solid food after a few weeks and are fully recovered within three to nine months.
It is not uncommon to have pain, swelling, or bruising after a dental graft. If the graft material was extracted from another area of the body, you may experience a longer recovery time.
If you experience severe symptoms or symptoms that persist for longer than a few days after the procedure, contact your doctor.
If you are considering a dental bone graft procedure, talk to Athens Oral Surgery as soon as possible.
Dr. Tomlinson can assess your condition and create the right treatment plan for you, no matter which type of dental bone grafting you need. Schedule an appointment with our team by calling 706-549-5033.