In the past, patients with severe bone loss had to look for other tooth replacement options because they couldn’t qualify for dental implants. However, today, patients can benefit from bone grafting — a procedure that adds volume and density to your jawbone to support an implant. At Perio Implant Chicago in Chicago, Illinois, we offer effective dental graft services to patients and residents of the nearby areas. If you have been ruled out as a beneficiary for dental implants, book an appointment with us, and you will be one step closer to dental implant candidacy.
Why you may need a bone graft
You already know that a bone graft is necessary to rebuild your jawbone after it has deteriorated. But why does your bone disintegrate? Like your muscles, your bone tissue wastes away if not used. This is what happens when you lose teeth. Since your bone doesn’t receive any stimulation from your teeth when chewing or grinding, it starts losing its volume. Due to bone loss, your face caves in, making you look older than your years.
You may also need a dental graft after severe gum disease. Periodontitis can “eat away” your jawbone, weakening it over time. Believe it or not, teeth misalignment may lead to bone loss. Severe misalignment of teeth may deny your jawbone the required stimulation, causing bone atrophy.
Whatever the cause of your bone deterioration, dental grafting rebuilds your bone tissue to improve your appearance and makes you eligible for tooth restorations like implants.
What to expect during the bone grafting procedure
Like any other dental procedure, bone grafting starts with a consultation with our dental team. We scrutinize your medical history, physically examine your mouth, and use radiographs and other diagnostic tools to establish your bone density.
Once we determine your candidacy for bone grafting, Drs. Cabrera and Sabzehei may use bone grafts from one of the sources below:
- Donor bone tissue from another person, usually a cadaver
- Animal bone tissue
- Synthetic bone tissue
Your age, amount of bone loss, and an array of other factors determine the source of your graft. If the bone is harvested from other parts of the body, anesthesia will be used, and your doctor will give you aftercare tips to hasten the healing of the surgical site.
Once we have the donor bone tissue, we add it surgically to your jawbone and give it time to fuse. Typically, this process takes about three months. After healing, the patient’s face looks renewed and has a healthy jawbone to support a dental implant and implant-retained dentures.
How to take care of a bone graft
Taking care of your dental graft isn’t any different from caring for other oral surgery sites. After the procedure, you may experience mild soreness, usually treated with over-the-counter painkillers and a cold compress. Other general guidelines for taking care of your dental bone graft include:
- Stick to soft foods for the first few days or weeks
- Avoid highly spicy, hot, or salty foods
- Avoid chewing on the surgical site
- Maintain proper oral hygiene to avoid infection
Bone Grafting: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly is bone grafting?
Bone grafting is a procedure that gives your jaw a little boost! It is a procedure where your dentist or periodontist at Perio Implant Chicago adds bone material to areas in your jaw where bone has weakened or shrunk. It helps in creating a strong, stable foundation for dental implants.
Why do I need a bone graft before getting dental implants?
Sometimes, when natural adult teeth are missing for a long time, the jawbone might shrink or not be strong enough to support an implant. A bone graft ensures enough healthy bone to anchor your dental implant securely. It is similar to leveling the ground before building a house. It’s all about making the supports strong and sturdy.
Does bone grafting hurt?
Bone grafting is not nearly as scary as it sounds! You will be numbed during the procedure, so you should not feel pain. Afterwards, you might have some mild soreness, but most of our patients describe it as manageable. Your periodontist at Perio Implant Chicago will make sure you are comfortable every step of the way. Most patients recover quickly, especially when following post-op care instructions such as avoiding spicy foods and sticking to soft meals.
Where does the bone for grafting come from?
Good news—you have options! The bone might come from another body area, a donor source, or even synthetic materials. Your periodontal team at Perio Implant Chicago will recommend the best type for your specific needs, and all sources are completely safe. Every case is different, so factors like your age and the amount of bone loss are considered when selecting the ideal grafting material.
How long does it take to heal after a bone graft?
Patience is key! Healing usually takes three to six months, depending on the graft size and your body’s natural healing process. While it may feel like a long time, this step ensures your jaw is strong and ready for a perfect dental implant placement. This healing period allows the graft to fuse with your natural bone, creating the structural support needed for long-lasting results.
Will the bone graft make my dental implant last longer?
Absolutely! A successful bone graft creates a sturdy base to help your dental implants last for decades. A small investment in time and care leads to a confident, healthy smile for the long run. While it sounds complex, it is considered a tried-and-true way to get the smile of your dreams! If you have more questions, do not hesitate to contact the Perio Implant Chicago team!
Need a dental bone graft in Chicago, Illinois? You can trust our dental team at Perio Implant Chicago for successful bone grafting treatment. Please dial (312) 736-7959 to schedule an appointment for jawbone replacement.
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