Bone grafts come from four possible sources: you, another human being, an animal (typically a cow), or synthetic materials. The dentist will determine the type of material you receive, depending on your circumstance.

Bone grafting is a term that encompasses several different procedures. The particular approach we take will depend on location in the mouth, the amount of bone loss, and the length of time after tooth loss. In the case of a recently lost or extracted tooth, we may pack the socket with graft material to preserve the bone and structure. If the tooth was lost or removed years ago, we might need to perform a larger graft. Patients with advanced tooth loss, or those that already wear dentures, may need to receive an even more extensive bone graft.

A bone graft procedure will go something like this:

• Step one—We will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area and eliminate pain. Other sedation options are also available for patients uncomfortable with the surgical process.
• Step two—The dentist will make a small incision into the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone.
• Step three—The dentist will place the graft material onto the affected area.
• Step four—The dentist will suture the incision.

You will then have to wait, typically for several months, while new bone begins to grow. By the end of this process, the graft material will be completely absorbed into the new bone. Once the new bone had fully developed, we can continue with the rest of the implant process. In some cases, if the graft is minor enough, we may be able to place the implant immediately following the procedure.

You may experience some minor swelling, bleeding, and soreness in the days after your graft. This can usually be managed with an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, like ibuprofen. We may also prescribe antibiotics to reduce the chances of infection.

Besides restoring deteriorated bone, or halting the process, grafting allows you to receive the best possible tooth restoration on the market. Dental implants offer not only superior esthetics, comfort, durability, and longevity but also prevent future bone deterioration. You will find that dental implants vastly improve your life!