Has your dentist recommended bone grafting in case you want dental implants? Not to worry. This is a common dental procedure that will help strengthen your jawbone to support new teeth. If you know the different types of dental bone grafts, you will feel more comfortable during treatment. If you are looking for some bone grafting near you, then this article is to inform you regarding the major types to help you choose the best for your smile.
What is Bone Grafting and Why is it Needed?
A dental procedure known as bone grafting is designed to add bone to a jaw area that may have lost bone. It’s often needed after tooth loss, gum disease, or injury. A decent jawbone will help keep dental implants sturdy and also keep your face from changing shape.
Your dentist will recommend a graft based on the quality of your bone, your health and what you want.
What are the Different Types of Dental Bone Grafts?
There are many types of bone grafts, and they could be used for many things, at least theoretically. Here are the most common ones.
- Autograft (Your Own Bone)
- More often than not, bone tissue from another part of your body will be retrieved.
- It’s biocompatible and encourages fast healing.
- Since it’s your own bone, there’s no risk of rejection.
- Allograft (Donor Bone)
- Bone is taken from a human donor and processed for safety.
- It requires less invasive procedures because it doesn’t need surgery.
- Healing time is slightly longer than autografts.
- Xenograft (Animal Bone)
- Generally, it is made of sterilized bones of a cow or a pig.
- It supports the growth of your bones by providing a framework.
- Implant preparation is the most common usage.
- Alloplast (Synthetic Bone)
- It is produced from harmless, artificially created substances such as calcium phosphate.
- Good is a patient who wants a non-biological product.
- It lowers the possibility of infection transmission.
What Happens During a Bone Grafting Procedure?
This is a simple procedure performed using local anesthesia. Here’s what you can expect.
- The area is numbed to keep you comfortable.
- The dentist at the dental clinic in Winnipeg puts the graft material inside the deficient area.
- The area is covered and allowed to heal naturally over a few months.
- Once fully healed, the area is strong enough to accept an implant.
It is normal for patients to feel slight discomfort for a couple of days. Medication and rest will help in such cases.
How Long Does It Take to Heal After Bone Grafting?
The recovery period will depend on the dental bone grafts used and how your body reacts. In general, full integration of the Bone implant occurs after approximately 3 to 6 months. Your dentist will monitor the crown closely and will insert an implant when it has been prepared.
To speed up recovery, follow these simple tips.
- Eat soft foods and avoid chewing near the treated area.
- Keep up with good oral hygiene.
- Avoid smoking, as it slows down healing.
- Attend follow-up appointments for checkups.
Ready to Strengthen Your Smile?
Wondering which bone graft options are right for you? Book your visit to WestEnd Dental today. Our trained professionals help discover your best smile restoration.
FAQs
Is bone grafting painful?
No, treatment is done under local anesthesia so you don’t feel the pain during the procedure. Some soreness afterward is normal.
How long does a dental bone graft take to heal completely?
The type of graft applied and your oral health may determine whether healing will take 3 to 6 months.
Can I get a dental implant right after bone grafting?
In some cases, yes. Most patients usually wait for the graft to heal before initiating implant placement.
Are synthetic bone grafts safe?
Yes, materials which are synthetic, like calcium phosphate, are biocompatible and safe for dental purposes.