When a person with good general health loses a tooth due to periodontal disease, injury, or another infection, a dental implant is an excellent, safe, and lasting solution. Bone grafting is a very popular and safe procedure, with over two million surgeries being reported each year. When a tooth is missing or extracted from the alveolar bones that support your roots, gums and teeth, it eventually evaporates, causing facial features to shift over time. Fortunately, with the help of bone grafts, the bone that has been lost can be rebuilt.
How it works: The procedure itself is done by using a piece of bone (normally from your own jawbone; however artificial is also an alternative) as the base for your implant. Depending on the type on dental implant you plan on the getting, and the condition of your jawbone, the process of recovery can take up to several months for the transplanted bone to grow enough to fully support the implant.
Of course with any surgery, come a few risks. Common ones include infection at the source, damage to the surrounding teeth or blood vessels, nerve damage, and sinus problems. The post-procedure discomforts include swelling of the gums, brushing on the skin, and minor bleeding. Any discomfort after the procedure should only last a few days and can be managed with anti-inflammatory medication, as well as ice therapy.
Following a successful bone grafting, it is recommended to practice exceptional oral hygiene and see your dentist on a regular basis! To find out more about bone grafting or if you think you are an eligible candidate, give us a call!
