Designer Smiles

What is Bone Grafting, Its Procedure, Benefits & Aftercare Tips?

A man smiling after getting a bone graft treatment

What is a Bone Graft?

A bone graft replaces missing bone to repair bones that cannot heal properly on their own. The bone graft can be taken from another area of the patient’s body or synthetic. The primary purpose of getting bone grafts near Ridgeview, Coral Springs, FL, is to promote new bone growth so that the patient can eventually have a full, functional range of motion. Additionally, bone grafts can also be used to prevent further deterioration of the bones or joints.

What is Bone Grafting Procedure?

Bone grafting is done in a few steps:

1)  Anesthesia

This will numb the area so that you won’t feel any pain during your procedure.

The dentist can use local anesthesia, oral or IV dental sedation, or general anesthesia. Anesthesia makes it possible to perform surgery without them always feeling uncomfortable.

2) Bone Sourcing

The bones are obtained from your body (autograft), an allograft (cadaver), or synthetic.

Allografts are often used because they’re easier to come by than autografts—and they’re more cost-effective.

3) Grafting Insertion

Our periodontist in 33067 will make incisions on the affected area and fix the bone granules. The bone can be fixed in blocks or small fragments, depending on the severity of the condition.

4) Stitching

Our dentist in Coral Springs, FL will then stitch the gums to facilitate healing. When your graft is healing well, you’ll be able to remove the stitches. This can happen within four to six weeks of the procedure.

5) Recovery

During the recovery process, the grafts typically fuse with nearby bones in a few weeks or up to one year. Your recovery timeline will depend on the size and where the graft was implanted.

What are the Benefits of getting Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting offers several benefits:

a) It Rebuilds Weak Bones

Bone grafting is a process whereby new bone cells are transplanted into an area of the body where the existing bone has been damaged or is not strong enough. This can help improve the bone’s strength and make it more resistant to injury.

b) Helps Maintain Your Facial Structures

As we age, our bones start to deteriorate. This process is called osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can cause our facial structures to collapse, leading to a sunken appearance. Bone grafting can help to maintain the facial structures by providing new bone cells that can help to support the existing bone.

c) Supports Dental Implants and Bridges

The bone graft helps to support dental implants and bridges. By increasing the height of the alveolar ridge, the bone graft can provide a better foundation for these devices. This will help keep these devices secure and functional for longer.

d) It Supports the Teeth and Gums

These can help people with trauma, infection, tumors, sinus deficiencies, and severe gum disease experience a reversal of these conditions and allow for more healthy teeth and gums because it regenerates the surrounding area.

e) Prevents Tooth Loss

When you lose a tooth, you lose not only the visible part of the tooth and the root that anchors it in place. This can cause the surrounding teeth to shift out of place and become loose. A bone graft helps to prevent this by replacing the lost root and providing support for the surrounding teeth.

f) Restores the Original Shape of the Jawbone

This is especially beneficial for people who have suffered from conditions like cancer or trauma, which can cause the jawbone to change shape. By restoring the original shape of the jawbone, a bone graft can help improve a person’s appearance and make it easier for them to eat and speak.

g) Bone Grafts can Help with Sinus Augmentation

A sinus augmentation was performed to increase the sinus floor’s height and improve drainage. The sinuses are air-filled cavities lined with a mucous membrane, which helps to keep the sinuses moist and free from bacteria.

Apart from supporting proper implant placement, a sinus augmentation can improve drainage, reduce inflammation, and increase airflow. Sinus augmentation can also help improve your sense of smell and taste and reduce the frequency of sinus infections.

Aftercare Tips for a Bone Graft

Here are the aftercare tips for bone graft treatment:

  • Use painkillers as prescribed by your doctor.
  • Avoid strenuous activity for a few days after surgery.
  • Avoid smoking; smoking increases your risk of infection, as does being injured in general (even if it isn’t related directly).

Schedule an Appointment

Are you looking to get bone grafts near Ridgeview, Coral Springs, FL? Call us or book an appointment with us now at Designer Smiles FL for more information about getting bone grafting in Coral Springs, FL, its procedure, and what to expect.