Bone Grafting
Bone Grafting in Washington, PA
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that rebuilds or repairs bone through the transplantation of bone tissue. In dentistry, this procedure often becomes necessary when the jawbone has deteriorated or lacks sufficient volume to support dental implants or proper oral function. The deterioration may result from periodontal disease, tooth loss, injuries, or developmental defects. Through bone grafting, we can effectively restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile by creating a strong foundation for dental implants or improving the overall structure of your jaw.
At Elizabeth L. Wakim, DDS, we perform bone grafting procedures using advanced techniques and technology to ensure optimal results. As general practitioners who perform specialty procedures, we carefully evaluate each patient’s unique situation to determine if bone grafting is necessary and develop a personalized treatment plan accordingly. Our priority is to provide comprehensive care that restores not just your oral health but your confidence as well.
Types of Dental Bone Grafts
Several types of bone grafting procedures can address different needs depending on your specific situation. The type of graft recommended will depend on the location and extent of bone loss, as well as your individual treatment goals.
Autografts
Autografts use bone harvested from another area of your own body, typically from the chin, jaw, hip, or shin. These grafts are highly biocompatible since they contain your own living cells and growth factors. The main advantage of autografts is that they eliminate any risk of disease transmission and rejection. However, they do require a second surgical site for bone harvesting.
Allografts
Allografts use human bone from a tissue bank. This type of graft material is carefully processed to ensure safety and eliminate the risk of disease transmission. Allografts are effective because they provide a framework for your body’s own bone to grow into. One significant advantage of allografts is they eliminate the need for a second surgical site, reducing recovery time and postoperative discomfort.
Xenografts
Xenografts use bone from another species, typically bovine (cow) sources. Like allografts, xenograft material undergoes extensive processing to make it safe and biocompatible. This type of graft serves as a scaffold for new bone growth in your jaw. Xenografts are readily available and have shown good clinical outcomes in many cases.
Synthetic Grafts
These grafts use biocompatible synthetic materials that mimic the properties of natural bone. They may contain calcium phosphate, hydroxyapatite, or bioactive glass components. Synthetic grafts provide a safe alternative to natural bone and can be engineered to have specific properties beneficial for particular applications.
The Bone Grafting Procedure
Understanding what to expect during a bone grafting procedure can help alleviate anxiety and prepare you for the treatment and recovery process.
Before the Procedure
We begin with a comprehensive examination that may include 3D imaging, digital scanners, and a bite analysis to determine the exact location and amount of bone needed. We’ll discuss your medical history, current medications, and any conditions that might affect healing. Before your procedure, we’ll provide detailed pre-operative instructions and answer any questions you may have.
During the Procedure
The bone grafting procedure typically follows these steps:
- Local anesthesia is administered to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure
- A small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the bone that needs augmentation
- The grafting material is carefully placed in the area where bone is needed
- In some cases, a protective membrane may be placed over the graft
- The gum tissue is then closed with sutures
For more complex cases, we may recommend sedation dentistry options to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
After the Procedure
Following your bone graft, you may experience some swelling and discomfort, which is normal and can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medications. We’ll provide comprehensive aftercare instructions, including dietary recommendations and oral hygiene guidelines. The healing process typically takes several months as your body incorporates the graft material and new bone forms in the area.
Treatment Options for Gum Disease
The treatment for gum disease depends on its severity. For mild cases of gingivitis, a professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene may be enough to reverse the condition. Regular dental visits, along with brushing and flossing at home, play a critical role in keeping plaque and bacteria under control.
For moderate to severe cases, deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing are necessary. Scaling removes hardened tartar from above and below the gum line, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to prevent bacteria from reattaching. These treatments help reduce gum inflammation and encourage the gums to heal.
In advanced cases, surgical interventions may be needed. Procedures such as gum grafting, pocket reduction surgery, and bone grafting can help restore lost tissue and prevent further damage. Antibiotic therapy is sometimes used alongside these treatments to target infection and promote healing. The goal of any periodontal treatment is to control the disease, stop its progression, and preserve your natural teeth.
Benefits of Bone Grafting
Bone grafting offers numerous advantages beyond simply increasing bone volume. For patients suffering from bone loss, this procedure can be transformative in several ways.
Bone grafting enables successful implant placement by providing adequate support and stability for dental implants. Without sufficient bone volume, implants may fail or not be possible at all. The procedure also helps preserve facial structure and aesthetics by preventing the collapsed appearance that often accompanies bone loss. By maintaining proper jaw dimensions, bone grafting helps preserve your natural facial contours.
Additionally, bone grafting improves oral function by creating a solid foundation for prosthetic teeth, allowing for proper chewing and speaking. It can also enhance long-term oral health by preventing further deterioration of the jawbone and surrounding structures.
Contact Elizabeth L. Wakim, DDS for Bone Grafting Procedures
At Elizabeth L. Wakim, DDS, we combine advanced technology with personalized care to provide exceptional results for our bone grafting patients. Our approach includes in-depth personalized consultations with 3D imaging, digital scanners, and comprehensive treatment planning to ensure the best possible outcome for your specific needs.
Our team is dedicated to creating a comfortable experience for every patient. We take the time to explain your options and answer all your questions so you can make informed decisions about your oral health. If you’re considering dental implants or experiencing bone loss in your jaw, contact us at (724) 558-8222 or through our contact form to schedule a consultation and learn if bone grafting might be right for you.