Will I Require a Bone Graft Before Having Dental Implants?

When a person loses a tooth due to periodontal disease, injury, or an infection, a dental implant offers an outstanding long-standing solution. A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants' look and function are similar to that of your natural teeth. Implants can also help in saving other teeth because they don't rely on adjacent teeth for support. 

However, bone grafting might be a vital part of the process when it comes to inserting a dental implant. At Rosemont Dental in Frederick, MD, we have the expertise and knowledge to ensure that it will be performed professionally and with the greatest of care when you receive your dental implants and bone grafting procedure.

What Is Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is the process of reconstituting the jawbone. This involves removing a piece of bone tissue from another part of the patient's body or mouth and transplanting it into the jawbone. Nowadays, there are alternative options for acquiring bone grafting material, such as procuring bone from an animal or cadaver source to replace the missing bone. These options cause minor injury to the patient, prevent a second surgical site, and are just as effective. 

After the bone grafting surgery, the transplanted bone will produce sufficient new bone over a couple of months to support the placement of a dental implant. After the jawbone heals sufficiently, the implant process moves forward. This starts with installing the titanium dental implant post into the jawbone. This phase could also require several months to heal.

Lastly, once healing is complete, Dr. Askari will attach the abutment, an extension of the dental implant's metal post, into the jawbone. This is again followed by some time gap to allow for the healing of the soft tissues. After healing, impressions of the teeth and jawbone are taken, and the attachment of the artificial tooth takes place.

What Happens After a Bone Graft and Implant Procedure?

Though time-consuming, bone grafts may be a crucial and necessary part of a dental implant process. After surgery, patients might experience minor discomforts such as swollen gums or bruising and minor bleeding. But these common side effects will resolve quickly.  Following each phase of the bone graft and implant procedure; there are also some dietary restrictions such as consuming only soft foods while the mouth heals.

If you are interested in learning more about our dental implants and bone grafting procedures, call Rosemont Dental in Frederick, MD, at (301) 663-114 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Askari.