One of the most common reasons for bone grafting in the jaw is for dental implants. This procedure helps the patient’s jawbone to support the implant. Because the implant takes the place of the missing tooth, the jaw must be strong enough to support the impact of the tooth every time the patient chews. If there is not enough bone for the implant, the implant may fail. Read on to learn more about bone grafting and what the recovery will be like for you.
Another reason that a patient may choose to have bone grafting is if the patient had an advanced form of gum disease. In advanced stages of gum disease, the patient can lose bone mass as the bacteria attack the bone. Bone grafting can be part of periodontal disease treatment. A patient may also choose to have a bone graft because of bone loss as the patient gets older. This is especially true if the patient has had one or more missing teeth for a while. The area can lose bone mass without the tooth or teeth there.
Typically, the dentist will take bone from another part of the patient’s body, usually somewhere in the mouth. The dentist can then make an incision where the new bone is going and place the new bone in this area. Over the next several months, the new bone will integrate with the existing bone as the new cells grow together. A patient may take supplements that will encourage bone growth, which will facilitate this process.
Whether the bone graft was relatively minor or a major one, it will take some time to heal afterward. Patients may notice swelling in the face around the site of the surgery. The face may also bruise. This is a normal reaction that means that the body is beginning to heal itself. Depending on the patient and the location of the graft, the recovery time can vary significantly. It can take anywhere from a few months to over a year.
To reduce swelling around the surgical site, a dentist may recommend that a patient use an ice pack in the area in the first 24 hours. Patients should take all medications as prescribed, including antibiotics. These will reduce the risk of infection. This is especially important after surgery to ensure that the bone grafts will be successful.
If you need to get a bone graft for an implant or to replace lost bone mass, the first step is to visit a dentist. The dentist will be able to evaluate you and determine if this procedure is right for you. Your dentist can help answer any questions that you might have about this procedure. Following the dentist’s instructions is an important part of ensuring that you will properly recover from this type of procedure.
Request an appointment here: https://www.titandentalcare.com or call Titan Dental Care at (703) 745-3227 for an appointment in our Sterling office.
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