Bone Grafting
Bone grafting helps rebuild strength in your jaw when bone has been lost over time. At Westshore Periodontics & Dental Implants, we’re here to help restore the support that’s needed for dental implants to protect your long-term oral health.
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Why Is Bone Grafting Important?
When bone loss begins in the jaw, it often affects more than one area of your mouth. You may notice changes in your bite, your ability to chew, or even the shape of your face. Untreated bone loss can also place stress on surrounding teeth and weaken their stability over time.
Healthy bone density is essential for securing dental implants. Implants rely on solid support so they can conform with the jaw during bone healing. Bone grafting creates the support needed for long-term success.
Restoring bone also helps preserve your natural facial structure. When the jaw thins, your facial profile can change, and eating may become uncomfortable. A graft brings strength back to the area for better comfort and function.
Types of Dental Bone Grafts and Their Benefits
Bone grafting is tailored to your unique needs. Your doctor will review your unique situation to recommend the type that offers the best balance of strength, safety, and healing for your smile.
Common types include:
- Autograft: Using your own bone tissue
- Allograft: Using bone from a donor source
- Xenograft: Using bone from a biocompatible animal source
- Synthetic Grafts: Using engineered materials that blend with natural bone
Procedure Overview
Your bone grafting journey begins with a thoughtful consultation. We’ll review X-rays or CT scans to measure the amount of bone present and identify areas that need support. You and your periodontist discuss your goals, your restoration plan, and whether grafting is needed for dental implants.
During the procedure, your periodontist will place the graft material into the area that needs reinforcement. Small stabilization techniques help the graft stay secure as it heals. Sedation options are available to help minimize discomfort and keep you relaxed throughout the procedure. Most bone grafts are completed within a single visit, and we review what to expect before you leave.
The procedure typically includes:
- A full evaluation and personalized treatment plan
- Careful placement of grafting material
- A healing period where the graft bonds with the natural bone
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Recovery happens in stages and varies depending on the type of graft and the amount of bone restored. Early healing may include mild swelling or tenderness, which usually improves with time. We give you a clear guide to help you care for the graft and protect the area as bone tissue rebuilds.
Comfort can be supported with cold compresses and any medications your doctor recommends. Gentle brushing and good oral hygiene help maintain a clean environment while your bone strengthens. Follow-up visits allow us to monitor progress and confirm that the bone is developing as expected.
Post-operative care often includes:
- Eating soft foods during early healing
- Avoiding strenuous activity until cleared by your doctor
- Returning for follow-up visits to assess graft integration
Candidacy for Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is helpful for people with bone loss from gum disease, injury, or long-standing tooth loss. If you are planning for dental implants but lack enough bone for support, grafting can restore the structure you need. Your medical history, habits, and medications play a role in your eligibility. If grafting is not ideal for you, we’ll discuss alternatives, such as mini-implants, or other restorative approaches.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re facing bone loss or preparing for dental implants, early evaluation makes a meaningful difference. Our team uses world-class diagnostic tools and a thoughtful, personalized approach to help you rebuild healthy bone and protect your future oral health. We invite you to schedule a conversation to learn more and see if bone grafting is right for you.
Meet the Team Guiding Your Transformation
Our doctors and staff look forward to taking the time to get to know you. Here’s a quick introduction to our board-certified periodontists.
