If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone to support a dental implant, dental bone graft surgery may be the solution. At Peter O. Cabrera, DDS Bahareh Sabzehei DDS, MS Periodontics & Dental Implants, we specialize in restoring bone structure to make dental implants a viable option. Here’s what you need to know about when bone graft surgery is recommended, how it’s performed, and what to expect.
1. When is Dental Bone Graft Surgery Recommended?
Dental bone graft surgery is typically recommended when there isn’t enough healthy bone to support a dental implant. This can happen due to:
- Tooth loss: Over time, the bone in areas where teeth are lost begins to deteriorate.
- Periodontal disease: Severe gum disease can cause bone loss.
- Injury or trauma: Accidents can damage the jawbone.
- Sinus problems: In some cases, the upper jaw bone needs grafting to place implants effectively.
If your dentist determines you don’t have enough bone for an implant, a bone graft may be necessary to restore the bone structure.
2. How is Dental Bone Graft Surgery Performed?
During the procedure, your periodontist will:
- Clean the area: The area where the bone graft will be placed is cleaned and prepared.
- Place the graft: A graft material (from your bone, a donor, or synthetic material) is placed in the bone-deficient area.
- Suture the area: The tissue is sutured, and the graft is left to heal and integrate with your natural bone.
Surgeons perform the procedure under local anesthesia, and they may offer additional sedation for comfort.
3. What Are the Potential Risks and Complications?
Though rare, risks include:
- Infection: As with any surgery, there’s a slight risk of infection.
- Graft failure: In some cases, the graft may not integrate with the bone.
- Bleeding and swelling: These are common post-surgery effects.
- Nerve injury: Although uncommon, there’s a risk of nerve injury causing numbness or tingling.
Selecting a skilled periodontist can minimize these risks and improve your chances of recovery.
4. How Long After a Bone Graft Can I Get a Dental Implant?
It usually takes four to six months for the bone graft to completely fuse with your own bone. During this time, the graft fuses with the existing bone, providing a solid foundation for the dental implant. Your periodontist will monitor your healing and confirm when it’s safe to proceed with the implant.
5. How Do I Know If I’m a Good Candidate for Bone Graft Surgery?
Ideal candidates are those who:
- Have experienced bone loss due to tooth loss, injury, or periodontal disease.
- Are in good health and can safely undergo surgery.
- Have healthy gums to support the healing process.
If you’re unsure whether a bone graft is right for you, our Peter O. Cabrera, DDS Bahareh Sabzehei DDS, MS Periodontics & Dental Implants team can assess to determine the best course of action.
It’s Time to Restore Your Smile!
If you’re considering dental bone graft surgery or want to explore your options for dental implants, contact Peter O. Cabrera, DDS Bahareh Sabzehei DDS, MS Periodontics & Dental Implants today. Our team of experts is here to guide you through every step of the process. Call us at (312) 736-7959 to schedule your consultation!
Share this Article
