What is Bone Grafting?
When it comes to oral health, there are many procedures and treatments that may seem complex and intimidating. One such procedure is bone grafting. In this blog, we aim to demystify bone grafting, explaining what it is, why it's needed, and how it can benefit your oral health.
What You Need to Know
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that is used to fix problems associated with bones or joints. It involves transplanting bone tissue, and the transplanted tissue helps repair damaged bones and stimulate bone growth. In the context of oral health, bone grafting is often used when a patient's jawbone is not thick or hard enough to support a dental implant.
There are several types of bone grafts. Autografts are made from your own bone, taken from somewhere else in your body. Allografts are made from a donor's bone. Xenografts are derived from an animal — usually a cow. Finally, alloplasts are synthetic bone substitutes.
Why is Bone Grafting Needed?
Bone grafting is typically required before a dental implant if the jawbone is not thick enough or is too soft. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including developmental defects, gum disease, face injury or trauma, empty space after teeth are removed, or dentures worn for long periods.
Without a solid foundation, an implant cannot be firmly anchored in place and the pressure from chewing could cause the implant to move or the bone to crack. Therefore, a successful dental implant often relies on bone grafting to provide the necessary support.
The Bone Grafting Procedure
The bone grafting procedure is a straightforward one. It begins with a consultation with a specialist like Dr. Frank Yeh at Coastal Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. During this consultation, the doctor will evaluate your needs and determine the most appropriate type of graft.
The procedure itself involves placing the grafting material into the area of bone loss, and can often be done under local anesthesia. Over time, your body replaces the graft material with its own bone, reversing the decline in bone quantity you may have experienced due to gum disease or tooth loss.
The Benefits of Bone Grafting
Bone grafting offers several benefits. It provides a solid base for dental implants, improving their success rate. It also helps prevent bone loss following tooth extraction, and can improve both the function and aesthetics of your smile.
Most importantly, bone grafting can significantly improve your quality of life. Dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Recovery and Aftercare
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, including minor pain, swelling, or bruising. However, these side effects are temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. You will also be given specific aftercare instructions to follow to ensure the success of the graft.
It's important to maintain good oral hygiene following your bone graft procedure. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and visits to your dentist. Avoiding hard and crunchy foods in the days following your procedure can also help your mouth heal.
Ready to Improve Your Oral Health in Virginia Beach?
If you're in Virginia Beach and think you might benefit from a bone graft procedure, don't hesitate to reach out to Dr. Frank Yeh at Coastal Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. Call us at (757) 426-6155 to request an appointment today.
