Bone Grafting

Major Bone Grafting

Major bone grafting is performed to repair jaw defects caused by trauma, extractions, periodontal disease, or congenital issues. The graft material can be sourced from your own body (e.g., jaw, hip, or tibia) or from a tissue bank. Guided bone regeneration techniques may also be used, where special membranes protect and encourage new bone growth.

Common Reasons for Major Bone Grafting:

• Traumatic injuries
• Tumor removal
• Congenital defects
• Severe bone loss from extractions

Bone Grafting Procedure:

• Major grafts often require a hospital stay and are performed in an operating room.
• Bone harvested from the skull, hip, or tibia is used to repair large defects in the jaw.
• Membranes may be used to guide and protect the graft material as it integrates with the surrounding bone.

Minor Bone Grafting

Minor bone grafting is often performed in a dental office and requires less extensive procedures. It involves repairing smaller areas of bone loss, often before implant placement, to ensure there is enough bone to hold the implant securely. This procedure is common in cases where bone loss has occurred due to tooth extractions or periodontal disease.

Benefits of Minor Bone Grafting:

• Supports dental implants by restoring the alveolar bone (the bone that holds teeth).
• Can be done under local anesthesia in many cases.
• Shorter recovery time compared to major grafts.

Why is Bone Health Important for Your Smile?

When teeth are missing, the jaw bone no longer receives stimulation from chewing and biting. This causes the bone to break down and resorb over time, which can lead to:

• Misalignment of remaining teeth
• Collapsing facial appearance
• Difficulty speaking and eating
• Increased risk of further bone loss

Restoring the bone through grafting can stop this process and support healthy, functioning teeth and facial structure.

Common Causes of Jaw Bone Loss

Bone loss can result from a variety of factors, including:

• Tooth Extractions: Missing teeth lead to the loss of bone that once supported the tooth.
• Periodontal Disease: Gum infections can destroy the bone supporting teeth.
• Dentures and Bridgework: Traditional dentures don’t stimulate the bone, causing it to shrink.
• Facial Trauma: Injuries or accidents can lead to bone loss in the jaw.
• Misalignment: Teeth that don’t line up properly can cause bone deterioration.
• Infections and Tumors: Conditions like osteomyelitis or benign tumors may require bone removal.

Bone Graft Materials

Several options are available for bone grafting, including:

1. Autogenous Bone Grafts: Your own bone is used, usually taken from the chin, jaw, hip, or leg. This type of graft contains living cells, which promotes faster healing.
2. Allogenic Bone: Bone taken from a tissue bank (cadaver bone). It serves as a scaffold for new bone to grow.
3. Xenogenic Bone: Bone from another species, typically cow bone, which is processed to avoid rejection.
4. Synthetic Bone Substitutes: Materials like demineralized bone matrix (DBM) or bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) can stimulate bone growth without requiring a second surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happens if I don’t have a bone graft after tooth loss? If you don’t replace lost bone, your jawbone may continue to shrink, which can lead to misalignment of your teeth, a collapsed facial profile, difficulty chewing, and difficulty speaking. Bone grafting helps restore bone and allows for dental implant placement, which can improve both function and appearance.

2. Is bone grafting painful? While bone grafting procedures are performed under local anesthesia (or sedation for more extensive grafts), you may experience some discomfort during recovery. Pain can typically be managed with prescribed medication.

3. How long does recovery take? Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Minor bone grafts may heal in a few months, while major grafts may take up to 6–9 months for complete healing. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide a timeline based on your specific needs.

4. Can bone grafting be done for dental implants? Yes, bone grafting is often necessary before placing dental implants if there has been significant bone loss. The procedure helps create enough healthy bone to support the implants.

5. Are bone grafts safe? Bone grafting is a common and generally safe procedure. Your dentist or oral surgeon will carefully evaluate your case and select the best type of graft material to suit your needs, minimizing any risks involved.

6. How long will my bone graft last? Bone grafts are designed to integrate with your natural bone, providing long-lasting support for dental implants and overall jaw function. As with any surgical procedure, the success of the graft depends on factors such as your overall health, oral hygiene, and how well you follow post-operative care instructions.

Ready to Learn More? If you believe you may need a bone grafting procedure or if you’re experiencing issues with your jawbone or teeth, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Stivers. We’re here to help restore your smile and improve your quality of life.