Dental implants are a good choice to replace teeth. They are durable and natural in function and feel to assist you in having a healthy and strong smile. Some people, however, require a bone grafting near you prior to getting dental implants. This is because when one has insufficient bone within the jaw, a bone graft procedure helps to create a good foundation for the implant.
What is a Bone Graft?
A bone graft is a surgery that is done to the jaw to increase its bone density. This bone may be obtained from:
- Your own body (from the jaw or hip)
- A donor (bone from a tissue, from a human being)
- Animal bone (normally from a cow)
- Synthetic materials (made in a laboratory)
Over time, this new bone adheres to your natural bone, and this makes your jaw ready to support a dental implant.
Why Would You Need a Bone Graft?
Not everyone needs a bone graft before dental implants, but it may be necessary if:
1. The tooth had been lost for a long time, and the bone has shrunk.
2. Gum disease can lead to a weak jawbone.
3. Your jawbone is naturally thin or weak.
4. You suffered an injury that affected your jawbone.
If your jawbone is not strong enough, a dental implant may not fit tightly. Bone grafting is done to build up the structure in order to support the implant and achieve its success.
How Do Dentists Check If You Need a Bone Graft?
Before placing a dental implant, the dentist will check your jawbone. This is done through:
- X-rays or CT scans – These show how much bone is present.
- Oral examination – The dentist will check your gums and bone health.
If the jawbone is too thin, the dentist will recommend a bone grafting in Windsor before dental implants to ensure the implant stays secure.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Getting a bone graft is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. Here is what generally happens:
- Preparation: The dentist gives you anesthetics so you won’t feel pain during the surgery.
- Placement: The dentist then places the bone material into your jaw where it is needed.
- Healing: After the graft, you will need time to heal. During this time, the new bone will grow and blend with your jawbone.
Does a Bone Graft Hurt?
Most patients feel little to no pain during a bone graft before dental implants because the procedure is done under local anesthesia. Some mild soreness may occur afterward, but this can be managed with pain relievers and by following the dentist’s care instructions.
Benefits of a Bone Graft
1. Creates a strong base for the dental implant.
2. Helps prevent bone loss after tooth loss.
3. Improves the success rate of dental implants.
4. Restores facial structure by preventing jawbone shrinkage.
Recovery
After a bone graft, you might feel some discomfort. This is normal. Your dentist will give you instructions on how to take care of your mouth while it heals. It may take several months for the new bone to grow enough for you to get your dental implant.
Restore Your Jaw Strength—Get a Bone Graft for Implants Today!
If you need dental implants but don’t have enough bone support, we can help! At Wonsch Dental, we offer bone grafting to strengthen your jaw and prepare it for implants. This procedure helps create a strong foundation so your implants last longer and function like natural teeth.
Don’t wait to restore your smile! Contact Wonsch Dental today to learn more about bone grafting and schedule your consultation.