Bone Loss May Affect Your Dental Implant Candidacy
Patients who’ve had teeth extracted or who’ve lost multiple teeth are more likely to suffer from bone loss. The jawbone requires proper stimulation from the roots of your teeth to maintain its strength and structure. When teeth are missing, the jawbone will start to lose its shape and begin to deteriorate.
When individuals live with missing teeth for long periods, it can cause bone resorption, resulting in altered facial appearance, premature wrinkling, and saggy checks. It can also result in difficulty with speaking and eating.
At Triad Cosmetic Dentistry, our Archdale dentists provide bone grafting services to regenerate lost bone and help patients qualify for dental implants.
What Is a Bone Graft?
A bone graft is where a piece of healthy bone (usually from your own body) is used to regenerate the lost bone in your jaw. Over time, the bone graft will bond with your jawbone and provide the stability needed for a dental implant.
How Bone Grafting Works
Preparation
Before the procedure begins, your Archdale dentist will provide you with a local anesthetic to ensure a pain-free treatment. At your initial appointment, we’ll discuss dental sedation options and decide what’s best for you.
The Procedure
The bone grafting procedure begins with a small incision into the gums. From there, the bone graft will be placed into your jawbone and closed up. You’ll then be sent home to heal, usually taking around four months.
Recovery
While you recover, the bone graft will attach itself to the jawbone and create new, strong bone that will successfully support a dental implant. Once you’ve fully recovered, you’ll return to our Archdale dental office to begin the dental implant process. Before you know it, you’ll have achieved a complete and healthy smile.
Bone Grafting Aftercare
It’s normal to experience some discomfort and swelling after a bone grafting procedure. These side effects should subside within three to four days. In addition to following any instructions you’ve been given, you’ll also want to:
- Avoid touching the surgical area
- Take extra precautions when brushing and flossing your teeth
- Rinse with warm salt water
- Follow diet guidelines
- Refrain from strenuous activities for three to four days
- Take medications as prescribed
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I eat after bone graft surgery?
For the first few days following your surgery, your diet should consist of soft cool foods including yogurt, ice cream, protein shakes, and Jell-O. Make sure you’re chewing away from the grafting site and avoid hard or crunchy foods. After bone graft surgery, refrain from eating until any numbness subsides. You’ll want to drink plenty of fluids (avoid using a straw), as you may dehydrated following the procedure.
How much does bone grafting cost?
The cost of a bone grafting procedure will vary. Depending on your insurance coverage, you may pay less out-of-pocket costs. Your dentist will break down the total cost at your initial consultation.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Archdale Dentist Today!
Combat bone loss with a bone grafting procedure at Triad Cosmetic Dentistry. If you’re ready to set yourself up for dental implant success, call our Archdale dentist today at 336-803-7570 to schedule your appointment. You can also request more information by filling out our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you.