Bone Graft
Covington, WA
Bone Grafting provided by Kyle S. Blair, DDS
in Covington, WA at Covington Family Dental
 There are many reasons why you might need a dental bone graft. Perhaps you're considering dental implants, and your Covington dentist has determined that you don't have enough bone to support them. Or, you may have a tooth extracted, and your dentist wants to preserve the bone in that area.
What is a Bone Graft?
A surgical treatment called a bone graft is performed to treat issues with joints or bones. Bones injured by trauma or unreliable joints can be repaired with bone grafting or the transplantation of bone tissue.
In situations when there is bone loss or a fracture, such as a knee replacement, it is also helpful for rebuilding bone around implanted devices. A bone graft can help stabilize a structure or fill a gap without bone.
A bone graft either involves bone from your body, bone from a donor, or bone that is wholly artificial. If the body accepts it, it may serve as a framework for growing new, living bones.
Types of Bone Grafts
There are three dental bone grafts: socket preservation, sinus lift, and periodontal bone graft.
Socket Preservation
Socket preservation is typically done after a tooth is extracted. The goal is to preserve the bone in the socket so that it can later support a dental implant. To do this, your dentist will place a bone graft material into the empty socket and cover it with a collagen membrane.
Sinus Lift
A sinus lift is done when the insufficient bone in the upper jaw supports dental implants. This procedure involves adding bone to the sinus area (the space behind your cheekbones).
This is done by making an incision in the gum tissue and lifting it to access the bone. Then, a bone graft material is placed in the area, and the gum tissue is put back in place.
Periodontal Bone Graft
A periodontal bone graft is done when there is bone loss due to periodontal disease. The goal of this procedure is to regenerate lost bone and to provide a foundation for dental implants.
To do this, your dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue and access the bone. Then, a bone graft material is placed in the area, and the gum tissue is put back in place. Sometimes, a collagen membrane is also used to help with healing.
Purpose of a Bone Graft
Have you ever broken a bone? If so, you may be familiar with having it healed and set in a cast. But what about when bones don't heal properly? That's where bone grafts come in.
A bone graft is a surgical procedure where either synthetic or harvested bone material is inserted into an injured or damaged bone to promote healing.
This procedure can also fill in gaps created during joint replacement surgery or stimulate new bone growth following a fracture.
Ultimately, the purpose of a bone graft is to restore strength and stability to the affected area, allowing patients to resume normal daily activities without pain or discomfort.
Bone grafts may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering medical procedures, but they can certainly impact those who need them.
Bone Graft Procedure
A bone graft is a surgical procedure where bone tissue is transplanted into a deficient or damaged bone. This technique is commonly used in orthopedic surgery to repair fractures, restore bone structure, and improve joint function.
Depending on the patient's needs, the bone may be harvested from the patient's body, cadaver donor, or animal bone. The graft sites are then prepared and carefully placed using screws, plates, or wires for stability and proper healing.
Once the bone graft has been successfully set in place, it will integrate with the surrounding bone as it heals. Through bone grafting surgery, patients can regain strength and function in their bones and joints.
Side Effects of Bone Grafts
Bone grafts can be performed on an outpatient basis, so you won't have to stay overnight in the hospital. The surgery usually takes less than two hours, and you'll be able to go home the same day.
It typically takes four to six weeks for the graft to heal completely. You'll need to avoid putting any pressure or weight on the graft site during this time. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on caring for the graft site and what activities to avoid.
Bone graft surgery is generally safe but has a few risks, like any surgery. Your doctor will go over these risks with you before your surgery.
Infection
Although bone graft surgery is generally safe, a few potential complications can occur. One of the most severe complications is infection.
Infection can occur at the surgical site or where the donor’s bone was taken from. Infection can delay healing and cause severe pain. If not treated promptly, it can lead to serious health problems.
Bleeding
While bone grafts are generally safe, there are some potential side effects that patients should be aware of. The most common side effect is bleeding.
Patients may experience oozing or minor bleeding at the incision site for up to 24 hours after surgery. More severe bleeding may occur if the blood vessels are damaged during the procedure.
Nerve Damage
As with any surgery, there is always the risk of nerve damage when undergoing a bone graft. This can lead to numbness, tingling, or pain in the affected area. In some cases, the nerve damage can be permanent.
While this is a rare complication, it is essential to be aware of the possibility before surgery. If you experience any unusual sensations after surgery, mention them to your doctor immediately.
If you're considering bone graft surgery, talk to our local dentists about what to expect. They can answer any questions and help you decide if it's the right treatment option.
Request a Covington Bone Graft Appointment Today!
Dental bone grafting is a safe and effective procedure that has been used for many years to help improve the overall health of your teeth. While it may seem daunting, dental bone grafting can help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted.
If you're considering bone grafting, talk to one of our Covington dentists about your options and find out if this procedure is right for you or call 253.499.6155 today! |
