If the teeth that you want to replace with dental implants are still in your jaw, they will need to be extracted first. However, once the procedure is complete, bone grafting may be recommended. What exactly is bone grafting? And will it be necessary in your case? Here’s what you need to know to ensure that you have an accurate idea of what to expect after your tooth extraction.
What Exactly is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a type of surgical procedure that is used to repair or strengthen areas where bone is missing or damaged. It typically involves transplanting a small amount of bone tissue from another part of your body. (Note that in some cases, donor bone tissue or artificial grafting material could be used instead.) Once the grafted tissue is in place, it will encourage the growth of new bone.
Will You Need a Bone Graft After Your Tooth Extraction?
The answer to this question depends on the state of your jawbone, the location of the extracted tooth, and other factors. That being said, if there is an insufficient amount of bone in your jaw after your tooth has been removed, you will most likely need to have bone grafting performed before you can have dental implants placed.
One of the unique features of dental implants is that they form a lasting bond with the bone in your jaw. This allows them to act as artificial tooth roots that provide support and stability to artificial teeth. However, if your implant posts aren’t able to fuse with the jaw due to a lack of bone tissue, they will fail. As such, bone grafting is often an essential step for rebuilding your smile with dental implants.
How Much Time Does Bone Grafting Add to the Dental Implant Process?
Generally speaking, bone grafting can be expected to extend the dental implant process by a few months. This is to give the graft material a chance to fully integrate with the jawbone. Note that the exact amount of time it will take for your mouth to recover from bone grafting will depend on your unique situation. Once healing is complete, it’s best to have dental implants placed as soon as possible before bone loss can occur.
There’s no guarantee that bone grafting will be necessary after your tooth extraction, but if it is, you can count on your periodontist to make sure that the treatment is carried out as smoothly as possible. Once it’s done, you’ll be that much closer to being able to enjoy a complete smile again thanks to dental implants.
About the Author
Dr. David Handsman studied periodontology at the University of Tennessee. Today, he is a respected member of the periodontal community who has earned Diplomate status with the American Board of Periodontology. At Handsman & Haddad Periodontics in Worcester, he offers a variety of advanced procedures, including bone grafting and dental implant placement. If you’re interested in learning more about our periodontal services, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Handsman by visiting his website or calling (508) 753-5444.
