It’s normal to experience small amounts of tooth sensitivity from time to time. But when it reoccurs often or gets severe, it’s time to get your oral health checked.
The sensitivity may be due to a compromised tooth or due to the general receding of your gums. To restore your oral health and improve the functionality of your tooth, a periodontist will recommend a dental bone graft.
But what’s a dental bone graft procedure, and what can you expect? Here are the basics.
What is Dental Bone Grafting
It is a procedure that can repair and restore a damaged or missing tooth. This procedure may be necessary to protect teeth, support dental implants and gum tissue, or repair facial trauma to the bone and teeth. Finally, bone grafting requires the harvesting of bone from another area of the body, such as the hip or chin, or from a donor or synthetic implant.
Preparation for the Procedure
Preparation for a dental bone graft procedure can be done in an office setting and takes between one to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case. The first step is to collect medical history and x-rays of the area that needs graft.
The patient is administered an anesthetic at the site to keep him comfortable during the procedure. Also, patients may receive antibiotics and analgesics to prevent infection and reduce discomfort.
Patients should discuss preoperative instructions with their doctor and follow them accordingly for the best results. Finally, the doctor may also tell taking Supplemental Vitamin D and Calcium before the procedure to promote bone healing.
In-depth Look at the Procedure
A dental bone graft procedure is a cosmetic surgical procedure that involves reshaping and restructuring the jawbone in the mouth to improve the appearance of the teeth and gums. During the procedure, a graft of donated bone and mineral materials is surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace damaged tissue and increase bone stability and strength.
The graft material is molded into the desired shape and secured to the bone with screws or both bone cement to support the desired shape. After the tissue successfully accepts the graft, let the affected area heal over time, usually around 3 to 6 months.
Aftercare & Recovery Process
Recovery takes about 6-8 weeks, at which time patients can resume their usual eating habits and activity levels. Patients should also limit their exposure to hot, cold, or acidic foods and beverages and avoid extreme activities such as contact sports. Also, the dentist may recommend patients use a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoid flossing and not smoke during the healing process.
Possible Complications and Risks
Generally speaking, the procedure is safe, with a low risk of possible complications. There are potential risks, but these include infection, delayed healing, improper tooth implant integration, nerve damage, swelling and bruising, jaw stiffness, and sinus problems.
If a patient has existing gum disease, diabetes, or other chronic conditions, their risk for complications may rise. It’s important for individuals to speak to the local dentist office for they understand the risks and are comfortable with the procedure.
Steps Involved in a Dental Bone Graft Procedure
A dental bone graft procedure can help make the smile more aesthetically pleasing. The procedure is minimally invasive and can give great results in a short amount of time.
Patients can expect little to no downtime and minimal discomfort following the procedure. Ask your dentist for more information about this useful procedure today!
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