Are you thinking about dental implants? Dental implants function as a reliable tooth replacement solution which enables you to obtain a complete smile restoration.
Bone grafting surgery becomes necessary when your jawbone does not have sufficient density to support dental implants. Your dental implant process will become less stressful when you identify the warning signs that need bone grafting surgery.
What Is Bone Grafting?
The method is similar to the building of a foundation of a house. During the surgical procedure your jawbone structure receives construction to create a stable base for dental implant placement. The jawbone experiences bone reabsorption which leads to weakening and reduction after tooth loss.
The jawbone needs tooth root stimulation to stay healthy and strong in the same way muscles do when they do not receive exercise. The bone grafting procedure requires surgeons to place healthy bone tissue into areas which need strengthening. The procedure functions similarly to scaffolding because it stimulates your body to develop new bone cells.
Types of Bone Grafting Materials
There are various options when it comes to bone grafting:
- Autografts: The bone extraction occurs from your own body through the use of tissue typically from the chin, jaw, or the hip.
- Allografts: This comes from a bone that comes from a human donor that has been carefully screened and sterilized.
- Xenografts: These are bone tissues from a different species, especially prepared to be biocompatible.
- Synthetic materials: Man-made materials that mimic natural bone and stimulate new growth.
Common Signs You May Need Bone Grafting Before Implants
Here are some of the instances where bone grafting might be recommended:
- You’ve had missing teeth for some time: Without the stimulation of a tooth root, the jawbone naturally begins to resorb. This process starts almost immediately after tooth loss occurs and gets worse over time.
- Your CT scan shows low bone density: We take detailed 3D images of your jaw before we insert implants. If we notice that the bone is thinning or weak, a graft can be used to keep your implant secure.
- You’ve had gum disease or infection: Advanced periodontal disease can damage both the gums and the bone beneath. Bacteria that cause gum disease release toxins that can kill bone tissue.
- You’ve experienced trauma or injury to the face: Accidents involving the jaw or mouth can result in bone loss that will need to be corrected before implantation.
Are you curious about why dental implants are worth it? Learn more about the benefits of dental implants and how they can transform your smile for the long term.
What to Expect: Is It Painful?
“How is this going to hurt?” This is a common question that we hear, and we take sensitive approaches and use the latest equipment to make the bone grafting surgery as painless as possible. Most of our patients are amazed when they discover the process is more comfortable than they were expecting.
This is what your experience will typically include:
- Consultation and Imaging – We examine your teeth and jaw using 3D imaging to get a precise map of your oral condition. Not to worry—this part is painless and gives us the information we require to take good care of you.
- Personalized Treatment Plan – If we decide that grafting is necessary, we will explain it all in simple terms that you can easily understand, so that you feel confident to proceed.
- Comfort-First Procedure – Your comfort is our top priority. With local anesthesia and sedation choices, most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure. Whether you prefer to be lightly relaxed or more sedated, we determine the best method for you.
- Healing Period – Following your treatment, your body gets to work! Bone grafting can take several months to completely fuse together before we can place the implant. We will still be in touch with you from time to time during this period and be only a phone call away if you should require us.
- Implant Placement – After your jawbone has been prepared, we will then conduct your implant. The newly strengthened bone provides a solid foundation for your brand new tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need bone grafting surgery?
While only an examination and imaging can say for sure whether or not bone grafting is necessary, we will guide you through the consultation. We’ll point out exactly what we’re seeing and explain why grafting would be helpful in language that makes sense.
How long does recovery take?
Most of our patients recover comfortably within 3 to 6 months after implant placement, but everybody heals at its own pace. It depends on the graft size and your overall health.
How much does bone grafting cost in Calgary?
The cost of bone grafting depends on the graft size and materials we use, but we will give you a general estimate before committing. Dental insurance plans usually provide some coverage for bone grafting when it is required for implant placement, and our team is experienced in helping you get the most out of your benefits.
Is bone grafting always necessary before implants?
Not necessarily! If you already possess adequate bone volume and density, you may be in a position to proceed with implant placement immediately. That is why we perform an individual assessment – every smile is unique, and your treatment should be too.
Restore Your Smile with Confidence
You can be rest assured that you’re not alone in requiring bone grafts before dental implants, and you will receive the care that you need. Our dental clients were exactly where you stand now, before they achieved their gorgeous everlasting smile.
Our team provides complete attention to your needs starting from the reception area until your last follow-up appointment. Contact us to book an appointment or to learn more about bone grafting procedures in Calgary.
