Learn More About
Bone Grafting
Types of Bone Grafts
Learn About the
Benefits of Bone Grafting
There are numerous benefits of bone grafting in Virginia Beach and Chesapeake area patients. While our doctors will go over the individual benefits of the procedure for each patient, some of the advantages patients can expect include:
- Preservation of surrounding teeth. If too much bone is lost, nearby teeth might become loose and eventually fall out.
- Preservation of the facial structure. Over time, excessive bone loss can cause a droopy profile and ill-defined jawline that drastically alters how a person looks.
- Improved ability to eat and speak. As bone deteriorates and the gums start to lose their ridge, it can become harder to chew and pronounce words effectively. Bone grafting corrects these issues.
- Stable base for dental implants. The main benefit of bone grafting is that it readies the jaw for dental implants. Patients will be able to have a long-lasting solution for their tooth loss.
- Repairs defects of the jaw. For patients who have suffered from problems in the jaw from trauma, surgery, or congenital defects, bone grafts can correct these issues.
Treatment Process
Sedation
In most cases, patients only require local anesthesia, but oral or IV sedatives can be used upon request.
Preparation
Once the patient is comfortable, one of our doctors will make a small incision in the gums. This allows them to access the bone underneath and ensure the graft goes in the correct place.
The Bone Graft
They’ll gently peel away the gum tissue and then place the bone graft in the correct spot. Once the bone is secure, they’ll close the gums, and the procedure will be over.
Recovery Instructions
It will take a few months for the patient’s jaw to stimulate the production of new bone. During this time, patients can eat and drink as usual with no restrictions. Once the healing is complete, patients will be ready for dental implants or other procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
