Why Do You Need A Bone Graft for Teeth?

Did you know there are situations when you need a bone graft for your teeth? Find out what those situations are and what to expect here!

There’s no denying that a strong and healthy mouth can help you to lead a high-quality life. Unfortunately, not all people are born with strong teeth. Teeth issues can stem from a plethora of issues.

One way to fix the issues that you might be experiencing is to look into tooth implants. However, to get an implant, you may need to get a bone graft for your teeth.

If you are looking into getting implants, keep reading to learn about bone grafts for teeth and how you can use them to help fix your mouth.

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Purpose of a Bone Graft

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that involves taking bone from one area of the body and transplanting it to another area. The bone is usually taken from the hip, thighbone, or shinbone.

The bone graft helps to create a new foundation for the teeth. It also helps to prevent the teeth from becoming loose and falling out.

When a Bone Graft May Be Necessary

A bone graft may be necessary when there is not enough bone available to support dental implants. The bone may be too thin, soft, or deteriorated to provide a solid foundation for the implant. The bone may need to be augmented to provide a strong foundation for the implant.

Additionally, a bone graft may be needed to avoid nerve injury or damage to the sinus cavity. It can provide the necessary support by increasing the volume of bone.

The Procedure

Your own body can provide bone grafts, or it can be artificial or from a donated bone. The bone is usually taken from the hip, the skull, or the tibia (shinbone).

The procedure is relatively simple. First, the area is numbed with local anesthesia. A small incision is made in the gum tissue, and the bone graft material is placed in the exposed bone.

The incision is then closed with sutures. You will likely experience some swelling and discomfort after the procedure, but you can control it with medication. Over time, the graft will fuse with your natural bone and provide a solid foundation for an implant.

Risks Associated With a Bone Graft

There are several risks associated with having a bone graft. These risks include infection, bleeding, and reactions to the anesthesia.

Additionally, the graft may not heal properly, which can lead to further complications. It is important to discuss all of the risks with your doctor prior to having the surgery to ensure that you are making the best decision for your health. 

To minimize the risk, it is important to eat soft foods, avoid smoking, and brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush. You will need to take antibiotics as prescribed and attend all of your follow-up appointments. You can also check this article about dental implant healing stages to help you with recovery.

Bone Grafting for Healthy Bones

If you have suffered from bone loss due to periodontal disease, an injury, or another reason, you may need a bone graft in order to have dental implants placed. Without it, there is not enough bone material to support the implant, and the implant will not be able to fuse to the jawbone. A bone graft can give you the support you need for dental implants and help restore your smile.

Check out the health section of our website for more tips and advice.

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