Dental bone grafts are required for people who have suffered bone loss due to periodontal diseases or loss of the tooth. Bone grafts help boost the quantity of bone either prior to or during an implant procedure.
To help you understand this procedure, we’ve gathered all the information you need to know about dental bone grafts, including their purpose, the types of grafts available, and the potential risks and complications associated with them.
Whether you’re considering a dental bone graft or just want to learn more about the procedure, this article will provide you with the insight you need to make an informed decision.
What is a dental bone graft?
A dental bone graft is a surgical procedure that involves replacing or augmenting the existing bone in your jaw with a material made of either human, animal, or synthetic bone.
This grafting material is used to replace the existing bone that has been lost due to periodontal disease, tooth loss, or trauma. The grafting material encourages new bone formation to take place, restoring the original structure of the jawbone and allowing for better oral health and aesthetics.
Purpose of dental bone grafts
The primary purpose of a dental bone graft is to provide a solid foundation for dental implants or to restore the natural contours of the jawbone. Dental implants require a certain amount of bone for the fixture to be securely placed in the jawbone, and if there is not enough bone present, a bone graft can be used to increase the bone volume. This is especially important if you are missing teeth for a long time as the bone volume may have decreased due to the lack of stimulation from the missing tooth.
It is possible to avoid a bone grafting procedure by ensuring an implant is fitted within the first 3 months of tooth extraction. This is because 50% of the bone surrounding the extracted tooth is lost within the first 12 months, so fitting an implant as soon as possible will reduce the chance of needing a bone graft fin future.
In addition to providing a stable foundation for dental implants, dental bone grafts can also be used to correct jawbone recession caused by gum disease. Gum disease can cause the jawbone to recede, which can lead to a sunken-in facial appearance and a lack of support for the teeth. A dental bone graft can help to restore the original structural integrity of the jawbone and provide the necessary support for the teeth.
Types of dental bone grafts
There are several different types of dental bone grafts available, depending on the patient’s needs and the severity of their condition. The most common types of dental bone grafts are autografts, allografts, and xenografts.
- Autografts involve taking bone from one area of the patient’s body and transferring it to the area that needs to be grafted. This type of bone graft is typically used in cases where the patient does not have enough bone present in the area being grafted and the amount of graft is minimal.
- Allografts are grafts that have been harvested from a cadaver and treated appropriately before transferring them to the patient’s jawbone. This type of bone graft is typically used in cases where the patient needs a large amount of bone, such as in cases of jawbone recession
- Xenografts involve taking bone from an animal and transferring it to the patient’s jawbone. This type of bone graft is typically used in cases where the patient needs a large amount of bone, such as in cases of jawbone recession
- Alloplastic Grafts are synthetic grafts typically made from hydroxyapatite, which is a natural mineral that is the primary component of bone. One of the major advantages of alloplastic bone grafts is it has zero risk of disease transmission.
Benefits of dental bone grafts
Dental bone grafts are beneficial for patients who are missing teeth or have periodontal disease. The procedure can help to restore the natural contours of the jawbone, provide a stable foundation for dental implants, and improve the overall aesthetics of the patient’s smile.
Additionally, dental bone grafts can help to protect the teeth from further damage by providing a stable foundation for the teeth.
Potential risks and complications associated with dental bone grafts
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with dental bone grafts. These include infection, nerve damage, and allergic reactions to the grafting material. Additionally, there is a risk of graft rejection if the body does not accept the grafting material.
How long does a dental bone graft take to heal?
The healing time for a dental bone graft can vary depending on the type of graft being used and the patient’s overall health. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for the graft to fully heal. During this time, it is important to follow your dentist’s instructions to ensure that the healing process goes as smoothly as possible.
Preparation for a dental bone graft
Before a dental bone graft is performed, your dentist will need to evaluate your mouth to determine if the procedure is appropriate for you. During this evaluation, your dentist will take X-rays, a CT scan, or a dental impression to assess the condition of your jawbone. Your dentist will also ask about your medical history to determine if you have any underlying conditions that may affect the outcome of the procedure.
In addition to the evaluation, your dentist will also discuss the procedure with you and provide you with pre-operative instructions. These instructions may include avoiding certain medications, such as blood thinners, prior to the procedure.
Post-procedure care for a dental bone graft
After a dental bone graft, it is important to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions to ensure that the graft is successful. These instructions may include taking antibiotics, avoiding strenuous activities, and avoiding certain foods. Your dentist may also ask you to come in for a follow-up visit to make sure that the graft is healing properly.
It is also important to practise good oral hygiene after a dental bone graft. This includes brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Additionally, it is important to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as these can interfere with the healing process.
Cost of dental bone grafts
The cost of a dental bone graft can vary depending on the type of graft being used and the complexity of the procedure, for example, the volume of bone you have and the quality of soft tissue around the bone. Generally, the cost of a dental bone graft can range from $500 to $3,000. The cost of the procedure may also be covered by insurance if it is deemed medically necessary.
If you have a missing tooth and want a professional opinion to replace it, we would love to help. Simply give us a call on 03 9593 1811 or fill in our enquiry form, and our friendly team will be in touch to organise your consultation.