Oral Surgery
Bone Grafting & Regeneration
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Who Might be Candidate for a Bone Graft?
A person might be a candidate for a bone graft if they:
- Want implants to replace missing teeth
- Have tooth loss, through extraction or gum disease
- Have bone loss that affects the appearance of the face.
Dental implants provide the foundational structure to support permanent or removable fabricated teeth. When a dentist extracts a tooth, a reduction in bone density happens quickly. The longer the patient goes without a tooth restoration, the worse the bone density reduction. Without a bone graft, the jaw is not strong enough to support the dental implants. Bone loss can affect teeth and gums. A bone graft and regeneration stabilizes the jaw and helps to prevent other health complications that otherwise might result. Bone density loss is especially prevalent in older people because osteoporosis causes the bones to thin. Osteoporosis becomes more pervasive with advanced age. It is also possible to lose bone density due to injury, infection, poor dental health regime, or other health problems that can also affect the jaw bone.
Bone loss can affect teeth and gums. A bone graft and regeneration stabilizes the jaw and helps to prevent other health complications that otherwise might result. Bone density loss is especially prevalent in older people because osteoporosis causes the bones to thin. Osteoporosis becomes more pervasive with advanced age.
It is also possible to lose bone density due to injury, infection, poor dental health regime, or other health problems that can also affect the jaw bone.
Know Your Bone Graft Types
Bone grafts come in various types, depending on what is wrong with the jaw. There are basically three types of bone grafts, as described below.
1. Block Bone Graft
If you have serious bone loss in the front of your jaw, your dentist may graft some bone from the back of your jaw to the front of the jaw.
2.The Sinus Lift
If you have bone loss on your upper jaw near the molars, it usually means the sinuses are moving down out of position, leaving no room for the dental implant. The Sinus Lift takes a small piece out of the bond below the sinus cavity and uses it to push up the sinus cavity floor into its original position. Then, the dentist fills in the bone below the sinus cavity with a bone graft. Over a period of months, this action causes the bone graft to regenerate and bond with the jaw bone to make it stronger.
3.The Socket Graft
This type of bone graft is done at the same time as the tooth extraction to prevent the bone loss that normally occurs after tooth loss.
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Recovery and Care of the Bone Graft
You will need to take special care of the bone graft area after the surgery. Your dentist will provide instructions for the 24-hour period following the surgery. Aftercare includes medicine to prevent infection, pain medicine, and ice packs to reduce swelling.
Bland, soft food will have to do for the first few days: no hard food or hot liquids. You will need to rest and limit physical activity while the surgery heals. Your jaw may start to feel normal after a few days, but it will take weeks before the jaw will be strong enough for a dental implant to take place.
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Patient Questions We Commonly Answer
Veneers can last 10–15 years with proper care, although longevity varies based on the material and maintenance.
Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to stains, but composite veneers may discolor over time. Regular cleaning helps keep them looking bright.
Some patients experience temporary sensitivity after veneers are placed, but this usually subsides within a few days.
Veneers cover only the front surface of the tooth, while crowns encase the entire tooth, offering more strength for damaged teeth.
Brush and floss daily, avoid harsh toothpaste, and schedule regular dental checkups to ensure they stay in top condition.
It’s best to avoid very hard or sticky foods, which could damage veneers. Cutting down on staining foods like coffee and red wine also helps.
Yes, veneers can cover gaps, chips, and mild misalignments, providing a more uniform look without orthodontics.
Most patients find the procedure comfortable, as dentists use local anesthesia if needed. Some experience mild discomfort afterward, which fades quickly.
The number of veneers depends on your goals. Many opt for 6–8 veneers for a balanced look, especially on upper front teeth.
Veneers require some enamel removal, so they’re typically considered a permanent solution. Alternatives can be discussed with your dentist.