Have you ever considered receiving dental implants but were told that you might first require a bone graft? This is much more common than you may assume. A bone graft will prepare the jawbone to fit implants if it is too weak or too thin to hold them.
If you are planning to have implants done, the dentist near you will first take a look at your jawbone to see if it is strong enough. Let’s take a closer look at what bone grafting is, why it may be needed, and in what way it is a benefit to getting your healthy smile restored using dental implants.
What is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a dental surgery where a dentist adds extra bone to your jaw. This helps to strengthen the jawbone in order to support an implant. The bone used for grafting can come from a part of your body, a donor, or certain materials that are safe.
When the grafted bone is placed, your body will start to heal around the grafted bone and will integrate it into the natural bone. This creates a solid area of bone for the dentist to place the dental implant.
What Are Some Reasons People Need A Bone Graft Before Getting Implants?
Dental implants in NW Calgary require solid foundational bone to hold them securely. If someone lost a tooth many years ago or had gum disease, the bone has shrunk and deteriorated proportionately. This means that some assistance may be needed in order to hold an implant.
Here are some of the common reasons you may require bone grafting in conjunction with dental implants:
- Tooth lost a long time ago – the bone will shrink when the tooth is no longer there.
- Gum Disease – It may weaken the bone.
- Trauma or Injury – Any trauma to the mouth may injure your jawbone.
- Thin Bone – There are people who are born with softer or thinner bone structures.
- Poor/Infected teeth – Infected or failed extractions can weaken the bone.
So, if a lack of natural bone resources exists, bone grafting can help prepare your mouth for dental implants near you.
Different Types of Bone Grafts
There are several types of bone grafts used in dental care:
- Socket graft – Done right after tooth removal to keep the bone strong
- Lateral ridge graft – Used to widen the jaw for implants
- Sinus lift – Adds bone to the upper back part of your jaw.
- Block graft – A larger bone piece is used when more support is needed
Your Beddington dentist will decide which one suits you best.
What happens with a bone graft?
Here’s what typically happens during the procedure:
- Numbing the area – your dentist will administer local anesthesia so that you won’t feel any pain.
- Placing the bone – the bone material is placed where it needs to be.
- Healing time – Your body will grow new bone around the graft, from its own bone material.
- Implant placement – Once the healing time is complete, the implant is placed.
The healing period will depend on your body, but your dentist will be with you through the whole thing to keep everything running smoothly.
Can You Get Implants Without a Bone Graft?
Yes, you can! If your jawbone is still thick and healthy, you can receive an implant without a bone graft. In some situations, your dentist can place the bone graft and implant on the same day.
The best way to know for sure is to have a full dental check-up from a dentist. They will check your bones to see what is right for you.
How Long Will Healing Take?
The average time needed to heal after a bone graft is about 3 to 6 months before dental implant placement can occur. While healing, you should follow your dentist’s instructions, which usually include the following:
- Eating soft foods.
- Keeping your mouth clean.
- Avoiding smoking or drinking alcohol.
- Taking any medications as prescribed.
Taking good care of yourself will help the graft heal faster and give you better results.
Does Bone Grafting Hurt?
Most people do not feel much pain; it is similar to getting a tooth removed. Your dentist will numb the area, and you may be sore for a few days after. Typically, all you need is rest and some simple pain relievers.
Why It Is Important to See a Dentist First
Everyone’s mouth is different. Some people need grafting, and some do not. That is why it is important to speak to a dentist before having implants done. They will do X-rays and scans to see how strong the bone is and guide you through the best options.
Visit Beddington Dental Clinic for Trustworthy Dental Implants
At Beddington Dental Clinic, we will be here to make your implant experience safe and easy. Our professional team will assess your bone, explain your options, and support you through every step. Whether or not you require bone grafting, our goal is to make your treatment as seamless as possible.
Looking for dental implants? Our reliable dentist in NW Calgary will help you restore your smile, because we think you deserve the best quality dental care in a welcoming and friendly environment!
Book your appointment today and start your journey to a happier, healthier smile!