Bone Grafting

Expand Your Treatment Options with Dental Bone Grafting

If you have experienced bone loss due to tooth loss, gum disease, or other medical conditions, bone grafting can help rebuild the necessary bone tissue to support a dental implant or restore the natural structure of your jaw. At Worthington Periodontal Specialists, Dr. TJ Miller and our experienced team specialize in dental bone grafting to promote new bone growth and long-term oral health.

What is A Bone Graft?

A bone graft is a procedure designed to encourage your body’s natural healing process to regrow bone in areas where it has been lost. This is particularly important for your jawbone, which can deteriorate following tooth loss, gum disease, or injury.

During the bone grafting procedure, our trained dentist carefully places bone grafting material into the area of your jawbone where bone has been lost. This material acts as a scaffold, stimulating the growth of new bone tissue and ultimately strengthening the weakened area.

Types of Bone Grafts

There are several different types of bone grafts that your dentist may recommend, each with its advantages and considerations:

Autografts use bone harvested from your own body, often from your chin, jaw, or hip.

Allografts utilize bone from a carefully screened human donor; providing an alternative when using your own bone isn’t feasible.

This surgical procedure helps preserve your natural teeth by addressing the underlying causes of gum disease and preventing further damage.

Alloplasts employ synthetic materials, such as calcium phosphate, to stimulate bone growth and provide structural support.

We will recommend the most suitable type of graft based on your specific needs and the amount of bone loss.

Why is Bone Grafting Necessary?

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure our Worthington, OH team uses to regenerate bone tissue in areas where bone loss has occurred. This is essential for:

Preparing for dental implant placement after tooth loss

Restoring the size of the affected area following gum disease

Preventing changes in facial structure due to bone resorption

Supporting overall oral health and function

How the Bone Graft Procedure Works

Dr. Miller will carefully assess the size of the affected area and determine the most suitable type of graft for your needs. The procedure typically involves:

  • Consultation & Evaluation: A thorough oral health and bone tissue assessment.
  • Graft Placement: The selected bone graft is placed in the affected area to stimulate new bone formation.
  • Growth Factors: Special proteins may be used to accelerate the growth of new bone.
  • Healing Process: Over time, the bone graft integrates with your natural bone, creating a strong foundation for future dental implant surgery.

Preparing for a bone graft procedure is essential to ensure the best possible outcome for oral health. Your dental professional will provide personalized instructions tailored to your needs and medical history.

Good oral hygiene practices before the procedure are essential. This may involve using a special mouthwash to minimize bacteria. Additionally, we may advise you to stop smoking and avoid certain medications that can interfere with healing.

The healing process varies based on various factors, such as the type of graft, your overall health, and adherence to post-operative care. Most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medication. Recovery time typically ranges from a few months to a year, depending on the complexity of the bone formation process.

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