Yes, bone grafting is a common procedure in dentistry and is an important part of modern dental care. It is a procedure that replenishes lost or weakened bone in the jaw, usually to create a solid foundation for a future dental implant or as part of the treatment of advanced gum disease.
Why Bone Grafts Are Done
One of the main reasons why bone in the jaw needs to be replenished is bone loss after tooth loss. Once a tooth is missing, the bone tissue in that area gradually weakens and loses its volume because it is no longer stimulated by the pressure that occurs when biting. This phenomenon is called bone resorption. If an implant is not placed soon after a tooth is extracted, a bone graft may be necessary to ensure that the implant is placed securely and is stable.
Another reason may be inflammatory gum disease (periodontitis), which can damage the bone tissue around the teeth. Even in these cases, a graft can restore lost bone and save teeth that would otherwise have to be removed.
Types of dental bone grafts
- Autogenous graft – comes directly from the patient, usually from another place in the mouth (e.g. from the chin or jaw behind the last teeth). The advantage is biocompatibility and faster healing.
- Allogeneic graft – taken from another human donor and specially processed to be safe. It is advantageous because a second surgery is not required.
- Xenogeneic graft – most often comes from beef bone, which is modified to serve as a “scaffold” for the growth of new human bone.
- Synthetic graft – made in a laboratory from materials that support the formation of new bone.
How the procedure is done
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is completely painless. The doctor will expose the bone in the area where the graft will be inserted, prepare the site, and apply the selected graft material. The area is then covered with a membrane, and the wound is sutured. The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour, but depending on the extent, it may take longer.
After the procedure, you should maintain good hygiene and avoid smoking, hard foods, or excessive physical activity. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics and painkillers. Healing usually takes 3 to 6 months, during which the graft will fuse with the surrounding bone and create a solid foundation for the implant.
Is the procedure safe?
Yes, bone grafts are a common and safe procedure when performed by an experienced professional. The risks are minimal, but they can include infection, inflammation, or resorption of the graft without new bone formation. However, proper aftercare significantly reduces the risks.
In conclusion
Bone grafts are an important part of advanced dental care, allowing the restoration of function and appearance of the oral cavity in places where an implant or other treatment would otherwise not be possible. With a variety of available materials and modern surgical techniques, the procedure is accessible and adaptable to the needs of each patient. For many people, bone grafting is the first step towards a strong, healthy, and beautiful smile; contact us today to take these first steps!