What Exactly Is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a surgery that helps rebuild or repair bones by transplanting bone tissue. This procedure is used in dentistry to increase the density and volume of the jawbone, which is necessary for supporting dental implants and other treatments. Bone grafting is especially important for patients who have experienced bone loss, as it ensures a strong foundation for future dental procedures.
When Is Bone Grafting Necessary?
Several circumstances may necessitate bone grafting, including:
- To Support Dental Implants: It provides the necessary bone structure for the successful placement of dental implants.
- Following Tooth Extraction: It minimizes bone loss following the removal of a tooth.
- Bone Loss Rehabilitation: It helps restore bone density lost due to periodontal disease or other conditions.
- To Enhance Facial Structure: It is used to rebuild bone, which is necessary for maintaining facial structure and aesthetics.
The Bone Grafting Procedure: A Step-by-Step Overview
The bone grafting process is a detailed procedure that involves several steps:
- Assessment and Planning: This includes a comprehensive examination, possibly with X-rays or CT scans, to determine the precise grafting needs.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia ensures the patient's comfort throughout the procedure.
- Grafting Material Placement: The bone graft material, which may be sourced from the patient, a donor, or be synthetic, is transplanted into the designated area.
- Closure and Healing: Following the placement, the site is closed, and a period is allowed for the graft to integrate with the existing bone, which can take several months.
