Bone Grafts

Bone loss in the jaw can lead to serious oral health issues. Dentist Dr. Carol Jin, DDS offers expert bone grafting procedures at her San Ramon, CA, dental office to restore strength and support where it’s needed most. Whether you’re preparing for a dental implant or need to rebuild bone lost from gum disease or injury, a bone graft can help preserve your oral health and prevent further complications.

What Is A Bone Graft?

Dental bone grafting is a surgical procedure used to replace missing bone and encourage new growth or regeneration. Depending on the bone loss severity, it can involve minor or major surgery. When tooth loss occurs, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate and lose density. A bone graft helps rebuild and maintain the bone structure, creating a strong foundation for future dental work. Grafting is helpful after bone loss from:

• Gum Disease
• Injury Or Jaw Trauma
• Long-Term Tooth Loss
• Tooth Extraction

Why Would You Need A Bone Graft?

Bone grafts aren’t limited to one type of dental procedure. You might need one if you’ve lost bone and no longer have enough healthy jaw structure to support future dental work. Rebuilding bone in these areas helps ensure long-term oral health and treatment success. Your dentist may perform bone grafting for common reasons such as:

• Dental Implants: A bone graft may be necessary to ensure the jawbone is strong enough to support a dental implant.
• Sinus Lifts: This involves adding bone below the sinus when there isn’t enough room due to bone loss.
• Socket Preservation: Helps protect the bone immediately after a tooth is removed, preventing the socket from shrinking.

Are Bone Grafts Painful?

We understand the idea of dental surgery can sound intimidating, but bone grafts are rarely painful. The area is numbed with local dental anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. Some mild soreness afterward is normal, but most patients find it manageable with over-the-counter medication. As Healthline notes, it is generally only painful if the bone material is coming from your own body, and is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Who Is A Good Candidate?

A bone graft is recommended if you’ve experienced bone loss in your jaw and need to rebuild space where healthy bone once was. Grafting helps create a stable foundation for upcoming dental treatments. You may be a good candidate if you:

• Plan to get a dental implant, but lack enough healthy bone to support it.
• Have experienced bone loss due to gum disease, trauma, or prolonged tooth absence.
• Recently had a tooth extracted and want to preserve the bone in that area.
• Need to restore jaw structure for cosmetic or functional reasons.

Where Does Grafting Bone Come From?

Bone graft material can come from several sources, depending on your needs and the graft type performed. During your consultation, Dr. Jin will help determine the best option for your treatment. Each option is thoroughly tested and selected for safety, effectiveness, and your personal comfort. We’ll discuss these with you in detail to make sure you feel informed and confident about your care.

• Autograft: Bone taken from another area of your own body, such as the chin or hip.
• Allograft: Donor bone, processed to ensure safety and compatibility.
• Xenograft: Bone from an animal source, usually a cow, sterilized for safe use.
• Alloplast: A synthetic material designed to mimic natural bone.

Recovering After A Bone Graft

Recovery is a critical phase following a bone graft. Time to heal can vary based on the extent of the graft and individual health factors, but most patients can expect healing to take several months. During this period, the new bone integrates with the existing jawbone. Post-operative care is vital for a smooth recovery. Patients are advised to:

• Follow A Soft Diet: This reduces stress on the graft site and surrounding tissue.
• Have Good Oral Hygiene: Gently brushing and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can prevent infection.
• Avoid Smoking: Smoking can hinder the healing process and compromise results.
• Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular visits ensure the bone graft is integrating well and healing properly.

How Long Does A Bone Graft Last?

A bone graft offers lasting results, especially when followed by restorative treatment like a dental implant. Its purpose is to stimulate natural bone regeneration and rebuild density in weakened areas. With proper healing and oral hygiene, the graft can serve as a stable foundation for years to come. However, if a dental implant isn’t placed within a reasonable time, the grafted bone may begin to lose density over time.

Safe, Effective Bone Grafting In San Ramon

As a trusted dentist in San Ramon, Dr. Carol Jin provides superior care with a compassionate touch. Our team is highly skilled in performing bone grafts with precision and attention to your individual needs. We understand that each patient’s situation is unique, and we tailor every treatment to help ensure the best possible outcome for your dental health. Contact us today and start your journey to a strong dental foundation.