Bone Grafting
We regularly think of our bones as rigorous and immutable materials in our bodies, but the truth is that our bones are continually remodeling. Remodeling is the process by which old bone is replaced by newer, strengthened bone, and new bone cells are stored while old bone cells are recycled. This process can sometimes cause bone damage or eroding, especially with regard to the bones that retain our teeth in place. When we reach adulthood or are afflicted with illness or disease, tooth loss may be preceded by the process of resorption, in which the neighboring bone begins to be resorbed back into the body. As we start losing more teeth and the bone structure around our teeth change, our facial features may droop. Medical advances, however, have been able to assist with restoring this bone loss via bone grafting, a procedure that constructs bone and can restore your teeth and facial structure.
While bone grafting may appear to be a major operation, it is usually performed in our dentist’s office. The procedure itself entails making a small laceration in the gums and then inserting grafting substance into the bones through the incision. The grafting material is made up of minerals that cause your body to produce new bone, causing your body to deposit and construct bone on its own over time. The grafting material is available in various forms, such as powder, granules, and a gel that can be injected with a syringe. This substance can come from an animal or even yourself, and it is cleaned and sterile in a laboratory. Following the placement of the bone graft, it is usually coated with a thin membrane that serves as a framework for the new bone to be placed upon.
In addition to providing smile makeovers to residents of Long Beach and the surrounding areas, we also provide the following restorative dentistry services in Long Beach: White Fillings, Full Mouth Reconstruction, Root Canal, Dental Bridges, Restoration Treatment, Dental Crowns, and Dentures.
Bone grafts are used in a variety of dental applications including:
- Teeth Saving – Periodontal disease is responsible for a large proportion of tooth loss in dental patients. As the underlying bone deteriorates and teeth become unstable, we may recommend a bone graft to save and enhance the teeth.
- After Tooth Extraction – When an adult tooth is extracted, an empty socket is left behind. Bone grafts can help fill this gap and reinforce the jaw. Bone grafts also help to reduce the likelihood of the body resorbing the neighboring bone.
- Dental Implants – A small titanium post is inserted into the jawbone when a dental implant is inserted. If the underlying bone is already flimsy, this positioning may be challenging. A bone graft can reinforce the jawbone and allow for the post and connected implant to be securely placed.
While bone grafting is a simple procedure, it does require making a small incision for placing of the graft. There is always the risk of infection when incisions are made, and this is why we must allow enough time for recovery. When you obtain the bone graft, we will administer local anesthesia to the gums, numbing only the area that will be treated. Because of the nature of bone grafting, it is common to feel some pain and swelling as well as pain or swelling at the affected area. This is usually treatable with over-the-counter pain relievers, and the discomfort should go away within a few days.
Many patients who have periodontal disease or other dental problems may find that bone loss complicates their situation. Luckily, bone grafting is a simple option that can help to rebuild bone in the jaw, leading to improved appearance and healthier dental outcomes.
