Bone Grafting: What Is It and Why Do I Need It?

Bone Grafting: What Is It and Why Do I Need It?

Your smile is the first thing people look at when they meet you. Therefore, it can be extremely hard for those who have dental problems such as missing teeth or oral diseases.

Missing teeth can cause bone loss that could cause further tooth loss and change the shape of your jaw. Bone grafting is sometimes needed before a dental implant. We will talk about what exactly a bone graft is and the reasons for it.

What Is Dental Bone Grafting?

A dental bone graft is a medical procedure that helps restore bone mass. Many times when you lose teeth, you’ll also start losing density in the jaw. Professionals will refer to this as “bone resorption” which can lead to serious complications such as:

  • Distorted facial features
  • Pain and discomfort during talking and eating
  • Inability to swallow certain foods
  • Increase in headaches and facial pain
  • Droopy lips that have little support
  • Trouble communicating effectively
  • Premature wringing around the mouth
  • Create damage such as misalignment to the remaining teeth
  • Inability to properly place a dental implant inside of your mouth without serious intervention
  • Droopiness in the face and inability to smile

All of these complications are just the beginning of what bone resorption can lead to. That’s why it’s important to get bone grafting before these complications arise!

Why Do Dentists Do Bone Grafts?

Dentists mainly work on teeth and gums. However, bad oral hygiene can result in bone resorption. And as mentioned earlier, this can make it impossible to use dental implants.

Therefore many dentists do this procedure as a way of restoring the bones around the mouth. And once the bones have been strengthened, a dental implant can be put in place.

Overall, with this procedure, your dental implant will stay secure which is why dentists advocate for bone grafting. Lastly, many people aren’t aware that gum disease can lead to an increase in jaw density. So a bone graft can also help treat gum disease

Is Bone Grafting Painful?

Many patients will come into the clinic in Lexington, SC, for a bone graft consultation asking “is a bone graft painful?” The answer is no! A local anesthetic is administered to reduce pain and discomfort.

The only time you might experience pain is during the recovery. However, the best dentists will give you medication for pain control. Lastly, be mindful of your diet as certain foods will cause discomfort and pain.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Bone Graft?

The process of bone graft recovery is fairly quick. After a week, the operation site should heal. However, these healing times do vary from case to case.

Some patients can have a longer healing time if they don’t follow post-op instructions. Be aware that the bone graft will take several months to heal and complete. But overall, you can go back to regular activities after a few days!

Bone Grafting Complications

Just like any other procedure, bone grafting does have possible risks involved. However, most complications can be avoided by going to an experienced bone grafting specialist. Nevertheless, here are some possible complications:

  • Jaw and gum infections
  • Nerve damage
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Blood clotting
  • Complications from anesthesia

Be aware that in some cases the bone graft doesn’t take. However, this is not a common situation. Your age and overall health can also contribute to any potential risks.

What Is a Bone Graft Made Of?

A bone graft is made in two ways; an Allograft or an Autograft. With an Allograft, the bone is taken from a donor who has passed away.

But before the tissue can be used, it becomes properly cleaned and sterilized. With an Autograft, the tissue comes from the patient’s own body.

The pelvis, ribs, and hips are common areas where the tissue is dissected. Most patients prefer allografts because they avoid multiple incisions and longer recovery times.

Does Insurance Cover Bone Grafting?

Some insurances will cover certain implants such as bone grafting. However, be aware that this will all depend on your specific insurance.

But don’t worry because this can be easily checked before the procedure. This is commonly referred to as a pre-authorization from your insurance.

It will determine if your insurance will cover the cost of the surgery. In some cases, only part of the surgery is covered. So be prepared to pay some out-of-pocket expenses.

Bone Grafting in Pooler, GA

If you live in Pooler and you’ve been looking for the best bone grafting services, consider Godley Station Dental as your first choice.

Godley Dental accepts all forms of insurance! If you’re not insured, Godley Station can provide payment plans for any services including bone grafting. Our expert team is fully licensed with years of experience. So you’ll never have to worry about future dental problems again.

The operating rooms are well-equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and comfortable recliners for a pleasant experience. And for nervous patients, our staffers will provide you with a warm blanket and a movie to help ease anxiety.

Godley Station Dental can also provide sleep apnea treatments, endodontics, orthodontics, and prosthodontics care. Godley Station also believes in community and family which is why they provide care for all ages. So if you’ve been looking for a family dental office, choose Godley Station!

Get the Best Smile Of Your Life

Bone grafting is a procedure that can greatly change your everyday life. If you have any questions about bone grafting, contact us today and we will be glad to answer your questions!

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