Bone grafts restore or replace missing bone in the jaw. Your dentist may recommend a bone graft after a tooth extraction (socket preservation) to preserve the bone structure. A bone graft may also be necessary before a dental implant is placed.
Studies have found that the survival rates for dental implants were significantly higher when bone grafting was performed beforehand.
Our experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Kesecker, can provide you with the best bone grafting procedures available. With a focus on tissue preservation and minimally invasive techniques, our goal is to help patients achieve optimal results with quick recovery times and minimal complications.
What is Bone Grafting?
Grafting procedures are performed to restore your tissues as closely as possible to their original state after tooth loss, gum disease, or trauma.
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure used to replace and regenerate missing bone in areas where bone loss has occurred. It involves using bone from your body, a donor, or synthetic materials to rebuild and strengthen the existing bone.
Many procedures, such as dental implant placement, require the bone and gum tissues to be as close to its original dimension and position as possible for optimal results.
Types of Bone Grafts
Several types of bone grafts may be used in dental bone graft surgeries. These are some of the most common:
- Autogenous: Autologous bone is taken from another area of your body.
- Allograft: Allogenic bone from a donor.
- Alloplast: Man-made from synthetic materials like calcium phosphates and calcium sulfate.
What is Soft Tissue Grafting?
Soft tissue grafting involves taking a piece of tissue from one part of your mouth, often the palate, or using donor or synthetic materials to repair the gum tissue around your teeth or implants.
Dr. Kesecker performs soft tissue grafting in conjunction with implant services and denture preparation.
A soft tissue graft provides healthy and sufficient gum tissue, which is crucial for the stability and long-term success of dental implants. It also improves the fit and comfort of dentures.
Why Are Bone Grafts Needed?
Bone grafts are essential for anyone who has experienced bone loss. This loss can result from:
- Tooth extractions
- Gum disease (periodontal disease)
- Trauma or injury
- Developmental defects
After a tooth extraction, the bone around the missing tooth will gradually shrink, leading to a loss of both bone height and width. Bone resorption also causes a reduction in gum tissue volume and regular shape. As a result, tooth extraction can often lead to functional and cosmetic issues, resulting in a collapsed or shrunken appearance.
Dr. Kesecker is focused on preserving tissue after tooth removal. Advanced grafting procedures and bioengineering can significantly reduce or eliminate bone and gum tissue loss.
For example, he will place a specially bioengineered dental bone graft material in the socket after removing a tooth. This material encourages new bone growth and preserves bone and soft tissue after tooth removal.
Who is a Candidate for Bone Grafting?
Bone graft procedures are typically recommended for patients with insufficient bone tissue to support a dental implant or other dental procedures.
If you have been told that you are not a candidate for dental implants due to bone loss, our team at Legacy Surgery can help. Our advanced techniques and materials make it possible to rebuild bone and create a solid foundation for successful implant placement.
Talk to a treatment coordinator
(540) 437-1230
The Bone Grafting Procedure
Grafting is a safe and effective procedure. We will have a detailed discussion about your options before the surgery to make sure you receive the best possible treatment for your needs.
The bone grafting process involves several steps:
- Consultation: Discuss your medical history, dental needs, and treatment options with your oral surgeon.
- Preparation: You’ll receive a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort during the procedure. We also offer sedation options if needed.
- Graft placement: The surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone area where the graft is needed. The bone graft material is then placed.
- Stabilization: The graft is stabilized to stay in place during the healing process.
- Closure: The gum tissue is sutured closed.
Healing Time
Before a dental implant can be placed, the bone graft must heal and integrate with the existing bone. On average, this process takes between four and twelve months. Once the graft has fully healed, you can proceed with your dental implant or other restorative procedure.
Bone Graft Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery time for bone grafting depends on the individual case and type of graft used. Most patients can expect mild swelling and discomfort in the affected area for a few days after surgery.
Temporary bleeding is normal and may result in a slight discoloration of your saliva during the initial few days. We will provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.
For a successful recovery, it’s essential to follow these guidelines:
- Take prescribed medications, including antibiotics and pain medication, as your oral surgeon directs.
- Remove gauze packs 20–30 minutes after leaving the office or arriving home. If bleeding continues, use a new sterile gauze pack. If bleeding persists, place a sterile gauze pack directly over the bleeding area, bite down firmly for 20 minutes, and repeat as needed.
- Avoid strenuous activities for at least one week after surgery.
- Apply ice packs for 20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off on the operated areas for the first 24 hours.
- Avoid consuming hot foods and beverages for 3–4 days. Stick to a soft diet for 2–3 months after the surgery.
- Stay hydrated.
- After 24 hours, maintain good oral hygiene practices to prevent infection, but avoid brushing directly on the graft site initially.
- Avoid smoking, using a water flosser, and drinking through a straw for two weeks post-surgery, as this can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Why Choose Legacy Surgery?
If you have been missing teeth for some time and have experienced bone loss as a result, we offer a variety of options for your bone grafting dental procedures.
- Expertise and Training: Dr. Kesecker is a board-certified oral surgeon who uses the latest medical advances and minimally invasive techniques. He can restore your bone loss to its original state with quick recovery and minimal complications.
- Experience: Dr. Kesecker has extensive experience reconstructing smiles and preparing the mouth for implants.
- State-of-the-Art Surgical Center: Our practice is designed to deliver exceptional patient care using the most advanced technology available.
Legacy Surgery: Your Harrisonburg Oral Surgeon
When you choose an experienced oral surgeon for your bone grafting procedure, you’re making the best decision for your dental health.
Legacy Surgery offers bone grafting as a solution to rebuild bone and restore oral health. Dr. Jeffery Kessecker and his experienced team offer compassionate care and use the latest techniques to help you achieve a natural, healthy smile.
If you require a bone graft for a dental implant, book an appointment with our treatment coordinator. Call (540) 437-1230 for our Harrisonburg location or (540) 213-8750 for our Staunton location. If you are searching for an ‘oral surgeon in Staunton’ or an ‘oral surgeon near me,’ contact Legacy Surgery.
Bone Grafting FAQ
How painful is a dental bone graft?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the bone grafting procedure. The oral surgeon will use a local anesthetic to numb the area, and you may also receive sedation if needed.
Is bone grafting a major surgery?
Bone grafting is a minor oral surgery procedure that requires some recovery time. The overall complexity and length of the procedure will vary depending on your specific case.
What is the downside of a bone graft?
There are minimal risks associated with bone grafting, and complications are rare. However, as with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection or bleeding. Your oral surgeon will discuss any potential risks during your consultation.
Is a dental bone graft worth it?
Yes, a dental bone graft is worth it if you have experienced bone loss and want to restore your smile with a dental implant or other restorative procedure. With enough healthy bone structure, the success of these procedures is greatly improved. A bone graft can give you the best chance at a successful outcome.