You want a dental implant. Your dentist tells you there is not enough bone in your jaw to support it — and suggests a bone graft. This sounds like a big step. But bone grafting is a well-established procedure, and understanding what it involves can make it feel much more manageable.
When a tooth is lost, the bone that once held it in place begins to shrink. This process is called resorption. Over months and years, the bone in that area becomes thinner and lower. If you have been missing a tooth for some time, or have had gum disease, there may simply not be enough bone to securely hold an implant.
A bone graft rebuilds that missing bone. The dentist adds bone material to the area that needs strengthening. Over time, your own bone grows into and around the graft material, strengthening the area so an implant can be placed.
Where Does the Bone Come From?
The graft material can come from several sources. It may be taken from another part of your body — often the chin or hip. It can come from a donor — human bone that has been processed for safety. Or it can be synthetic — a laboratory-made material that your body gradually replaces with its own bone.
Your dentist will recommend the most suitable option for your situation. Each type has its own advantages, and the choice depends on the size of the defect, your medical history, and your preferences.
The Procedure and Recovery
The grafting procedure is usually carried out under local anaesthetic. You may also opt for sedation if you feel anxious. The dentist places the bone material into the area that needs building up and secures it. The site is then left to heal.
Recovery varies. You may experience some swelling and mild discomfort for a few days. The graft itself takes several months to fully integrate — typically 3 to 6 months, sometimes longer. During this time, you attend review appointments so your dentist can monitor progress.
Can the Graft and Implant Be Done Together?
Sometimes yes. In some cases, the bone graft and the implant can be placed during the same visit. In other cases, they are done separately — the graft first, and the implant after the graft has healed. Your dentist will advise on the best approach for your individual case.
The key thing to remember is that a bone graft makes implant treatment possible when it otherwise would not be. It is an additional step — but for many patients, it is the path to a lasting result.
Get in Touch
Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com
Meads Village Dental Practice