At Johnston Road Dental in White Rock, we strive to provide our patients with the best dental care possible. One of the advanced procedures we offer is bone grafting, which plays a crucial role in dental restorations like implants. If you’ve been told you need bone grafting or you’re curious about the procedure, here’s a helpful guide to understand the process and its benefits.
What Is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that helps restore or rebuild bone in areas where it may have deteriorated or been lost. In dentistry, bone loss often occurs in the jaw, especially when teeth are missing for an extended period. Without a strong bone foundation, it can be difficult or impossible to place dental implants. Bone grafting helps to provide the necessary support for a successful implant and a long-lasting restoration.
Why Might You Need Bone Grafting?
There are several reasons why someone might require bone grafting, including:
Missing Teeth:
When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone begins to resorb or shrink over time. This can leave insufficient bone for a future dental implant.
Periodontal Disease:
Advanced gum disease can lead to bone loss around the teeth, weakening their support structure and compromising dental health.
Trauma or Injury:
Accidents or trauma to the mouth can result in the loss of bone tissue, making it difficult to proceed with restorative dental treatments without additional support.
Tooth Extraction:
After a tooth is extracted, the bone may start to recede, especially if an implant is not placed right away. In these cases, bone grafting can help preserve bone height and density.
Types of Bone Grafts
There are several types of bone grafts used in dentistry:
Autografts:
Bone taken from your own body, usually from areas like the chin or hip. This is often considered the most effective graft type since it comes from your own tissue.
Allografts:
Bone material from a donor, typically processed to be safe and effective for grafting.
Xenografts:
Bone material from animals, usually cows, which is also processed and sterilised.
Alloplastic Grafts:
Synthetic materials designed to mimic natural bone.
At Johnston Road Dental, our specialists will evaluate your unique situation to determine the best type of bone graft for your needs.
The Bone Grafting Process
Bone grafting is typically performed under local anesthesia, though sedation options are available for those who feel anxious about the procedure. Here’s what you can expect during the process:
Assessment:
Your dentist will perform a thorough exam, including X-rays or 3D scans, to assess the bone structure and determine the extent of the graft needed.
Graft Placement:
During the procedure, the bone graft material is placed into the area where bone loss has occurred. The material will eventually integrate with your existing bone, promoting new growth.
Healing:
Healing time varies depending on the extent of the graft and individual patient factors. It typically takes a few months for the graft to fully fuse with your natural bone, creating a strong foundation for a future dental implant.
Benefits of Bone Grafting
Restores Functionality:
Bone grafting allows you to restore missing teeth with implants, giving you back the ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.
Prevents Further Bone Loss:
By rebuilding the bone, grafting helps prevent further deterioration and supports the health of your jawbone.
Improves Aesthetic Appearance:
A strong bone structure enhances the overall facial appearance, maintaining the shape and support of your face and jaw.
Increases Success Rate of Dental Implants:
For patients considering dental implants, bone grafting increases the likelihood of a successful and long-lasting restoration.
Why Choose Johnston Road Dental in White Rock?
At Johnston Road Dental, we pride ourselves on providing personalised and compassionate care to our patients. Our experienced team is skilled in the latest techniques, including bone grafting, to ensure the best outcomes for your dental health. We offer comprehensive consultations to assess your needs and guide you through every step of the process.
Final ThoughtsBone grafting is a highly effective procedure for patients experiencing bone loss in the jaw. If you’re considering dental implants or have been recommended for a bone graft, our team at Johnston Road Dental in White Rock is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward restoring your smile!
