Bone Grafting
Bone grafting, or regenerative surgery, rebuilds bone lost to gum disease or tooth loss so the jaw can support teeth and dental implants again. Your surgeon places graft material where bone is missing, and your body rebuilds the area over the following months.
Most cases of periodontal disease can be treated with less invasive procedures such as scaling and root planing or gum surgery. Advanced gum disease, however, can destroy the bone beneath the gums. Once that bone is gone, it can no longer support the teeth, which eventually leads to tooth loss. In these cases a periodontist may recommend bone grafting, also known as regenerative surgery. During the procedure, a prepared graft is placed where bone should be, encouraging your body to rebuild the areas lost to gum disease.
Did you know…
that many bone graft patients are not treating gum disease at all? A growing number have the procedure to build enough bone to support dental implants. Bone beneath the gums naturally deteriorates after tooth loss, and grafting rebuilds these ridges so patients can choose permanent implants instead of dentures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need periodontal bone grafting?
The only way to know if you are a candidate for periodontal bone grafting is by scheduling a consultation with your periodontist. An exam will reveal the condition of your teeth, gums, and the supporting bone beneath. Based on your evaluation, your periodontist will make a recommendation for treatment.
What should I expect during a periodontal bone graft treatment?
If bone grafting is the right treatment for you, you’ll visit your periodontist’s office, where you may undergo a scaling and root planing treatment to remove disease-causing bacteria and help prevent additional complications in the future. Prior to the grafting procedure, you’ll be given a local anesthetic to minimize procedural discomfort and possibly sedated for your comfort. The gums will be separated from the teeth, and a graft placed near the underlying bone. A synthetic or organic barrier will be used to ensure the gums do not grow into areas the regenerated bone will eventually occupy.
Will I need to follow any special instructions following a bone graft procedure?
Yes. Bone graft surgery will leave you with sore and swollen gums, so expect to eat only soft foods in the days following your procedure. You may be given pain medications or antibiotics to be taken according to your periodontist’s instructions. It may take up to nine months for your body to make new bone to fuse to your graft.