Dental Bone Grafting
With dental bone grafting, we use surgery to repair or rebuild bones by transferring bone tissue from one area of the mouth to another. Dental bone grafting helps us recreate tissue to support structures, such as dental implants.
Dental Bone Grafts in Santa Barbara County, CA
Dental bone grafting becomes necessary when the natural bone in the mouth is deficient in supporting dental implants. This deficiency can be caused by developmental defects, gum disease, facial injury or trauma, or empty space after teeth have been removed.
There are several types of dental bone grafts, and the best solution depends on the damage that needs to be repaired and the location of the lost tooth.
Dental bone grafts are a fairly common procedure. They are safe and offer a great long-term solution for individuals who have lost a tooth due to periodontal disease, injury, or another type of dental or mouth infection.
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What is a dental bone graft?
A dental bone graft is an oral surgery that helps you grow new bone. The bone replaces unhealthy, missing or destroyed bone. Your graft may come from another part of the body, or we can make it from synthetic materials. Often, a graft contains processed bone minerals that help you generate bone cells.
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Are dental bone grafts painful?
Dental bone grafts are an outpatient surgery, meaning you go home the same day. We usually do it before a dental implant or tooth replacement. You should feel very little pain, if any, during the procedure and recovery.
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How long is recovery from a dental bone graft?
Recovery time depends on your specific situation, but most bone grafts heal within a month or two. Once the procedure is finished, your dentist must wait for the new bone to connect with the existing bone in your mouth. Then, they can complete the rest of the process, like dental implants.
You’ll likely take antibiotics to prevent infection. You may receive pain medication, though most patients don’t experience pain.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about dental bone grafting, or if you would like to request an appointment or contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further.