Bone Grafting For Dental Implants: Is It Necessary?

March 14, 2022

You're in the process of learning about dental implants when you come across the term "bone grafting." 

What is it and how necessary is the procedure? 

Let's find out!

What Is Bone Grafting?

A bone graft is needed when your jawbone is not strong enough to hold an implant. This usually happens because the density of the bone is reduced or the bone is lost, so the dentist will add supporting bone structure to strengthen the jawbone. Without enough support, the jaw cannot hold a tooth or an implant.

Bone grafting helps your facial structure be ready for dental implants or other restorative interventions.  

When Is It Necessary?

A dental bone graft is needed when:

  • Your tooth has been missing for a while now and that jaw area has not been properly stimulated in a long time. That can lead to a decrease in bone density and the need for a bone graft. 
  • You have suffered bone loss due to gum disease. Severe gum disease can affect the bone supporting the teeth, and the doctor might recommend grafting to stimulate bone growth and prevent teeth from moving and falling out. 

What Happens After the Bone Grafting Procedure?

After the bone graft is inserted, you can expect to feel some pain and swelling, even bruising. These symptoms usually go away in a few days, and they can be managed with painkillers. 

The complete healing process after bone grafting takes from 6 to 9 months, but you will only be in pain and discomfort for a few days.

If you are experiencing severe pain, intense swelling, pus, fever, and nausea, it is important to call your doctor right away and book an emergency appointment

Is Bone Grafting Always a Part of the Dental Implant Process?

Bone grafting is not always necessary. If the patient has enough bone structure and density to support the dental implant or other restorative treatment they need to do, it can be done without it. 

If the doctor recommends it, it will significantly increase the chances of successful treatment results. 

Over to You

Bone Grafting can be part of the dental implant process, but it's not a rule. The good news is that modern medicine can provide solutions for numerous dental problems, including bone density loss. 

Whether you have questions about dental implants, bone grafting, restorative care, cosmetic dentistry, or other dental procedures, check out Bauer Dental Company for more information about the services we provide.

Dr. Christopher Bauer is the founder of Bauer Dental Company and along with his team, they strive to deliver impeccable services to all patients. 

Contact us now and book an appointment with Dr. Bauer. You can get in touch with us online or by calling us at (559) 435-4020. 

We are eager to meet you! 

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