Structural changes in the tooth or deformation may lead to the need for bone grafting.

Bone grafting is a type of oral surgery that builds the foundation by either ‘growing’ or adding new bone so that restorative solutions such as bridges, crowns and veneers can be successfully implemented.

This dental procedure aims to restore the former structure of your bone after you have lost bone tissue, suffered from a gum disease or trauma. Bone grafting is also usually done after a tooth extraction.

Let’s delve deeper into what bone grafting is all about:

The Need for Bone Grafting

The body’s natural mechanism ensures that dead and damaged cells are continuously being replaced with healthier versions.

In case of an infection, bone grafting surgically facilitates the rebuilding process by filling the areas of missing bone with a framework of material. This graft material is as close as possible to the texture and composition of teeth so that it gels in, into the usual set of teeth that we have.

Periodontal disease, when left unattended can create havoc inside a person’s mouth. The immediate effect is transferred to the jawbone that supports the teeth. Unstable teeth require a tooth extraction which ultimately leads to a loss of bone in the operated area.

These effects start showing 2–3 years after the surgery. The jawbone may also erode or recede as a result of accidents impacting the jaw, serious infections, and presence of a tumor or untreated gingivitis.

These tooth problems call for immediate attention and most likely a bone graft before new teeth can be successfully implanted.

There are two types of bone grafting materials:

Autograft bone: The more preferred source of material, this is taken from another part of the patient’s own body and transplanted to the affected area. Since the body recognizes the cells and tissues as its own, it readily accepts it. This also minimizes the risk of disease transmission.

Allograft bone: Material from this source usually comes from an organ donor and is first assessed for compatibility. Usually if the body detects a foreign tissue, there are chances of tissue rejection. Medical advancements have minimized these chances of rejection and this procedure is considered clinically effective and safe.

Allograft bone material is easily available and does not require a second surgical site.

Benefits of Bone Grafting

Cosmetic surgeries and enhancement are carried out to maintain your facial bone structure. Dental procedures—whether it is a dental implant, crown lengthening, or bone grafting—aims to imitate the natural look and feel of the teeth.

To ensure optimum results, dental experts strive to adjust the bone dimensions and position in close proximity to the natural teeth. To prevent the skin from sagging, our underlying bone structure, skin and muscles need to be looked after.

Our Dental Services

Our doctors at Bethesda Dental Health, serving Friendship Village, Somerset, Chevy Chase, and nearby areas in MD, carry out a holistic assessment of your dental history.

This is followed by a physical assessment to increase the success chances of the dental procedure. You are most likely to be asked to fast before the surgery to prevent complications under the effect of anesthetics.

Successful bone grafting takes several months to adjust to the new environment. This is why we at Bethesda Dental health make sure that we help our patients with follow-up visits to aid recovery. For appointments, call (301) 654-1887 now.