Bone grafting may sound scary, but it is a commonly done, perfectly safe dental procedure that can bring about a lot of changes in your oral health. If you are looking for dental implants or need some additional support for your jawbone, becoming familiar with bone grafting will prepare you for the process. If you are searching for bone grafting near you, expecting the procedure can make it less intimidating. This guide goes through what bone grafting is, how it is done, what you should expect during your recovery, and why the procedure might be recommended for you.
What is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a dental procedure by which your periodontist or dentist places bone material into your jaw. It is usually performed when the jawbone has thinned due to injury, gum disease, or tooth loss. It is to provide some cushioning on top of the bone so that it can hold the dental implants or to preserve the shape of your mouth. The new bone is sourced from within your own body, a donor, or a man-made equivalent intended to have properties similar to bone.
When You May Need to Visit a Marietta Periodontist
If you’re in Marietta and you need assistance with your gums or bones, a periodontist in Marietta can evaluate your condition. These are the kind of dental experts whose expertise is in the care of teeth-supporting structures like bones and gums. They can prescribe bone grafting for you if you have lost teeth or gum disease so that they can make your teeth healthier and more appropriate for other types of treatment, like implants.
How to Find a Trusted Provider for Bone Grafting
You might be wondering how to begin the process or where to go for treatment. A quick online search for bone grafting in your area can help you locate trusted dental offices offering this service. It’s important to choose a practice with experience in bone graft procedures. They will examine your mouth using X-rays or scans and explain what type of bone graft you may need.
What to Expect from the Procedure
Bone grafting is typically done under local anesthesia. Once the area is numb, your dentist will place the grafting material in the space where bone is needed. Sometimes, a small membrane is used to protect the area while it heals. After the procedure, you’ll be given instructions to help with healing, including tips on eating soft foods, keeping the area clean, and avoiding smoking.
Understanding Bone Grafting Recovery
One of the most common questions patients have is about bone grafting recovery. In most cases, you can expect some swelling and mild discomfort for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter medication. Healing times can vary, but it often takes a few months for the graft to fully integrate with your natural bone. During this time, regular checkups are important to make sure everything is healing as expected.
Why Do You Need Bone Grafting?
Your dentist might recommend bone grafting for several reasons. If you’ve lost teeth, the bone in that area can shrink over time. This may make it hard to place dental implants, which need a strong foundation to work well. Gum disease can also damage the bone around teeth. In these cases, bone grafting can help repair the area. So, if you’re asking why you need bone grafting, the answer is often to restore strength and structure to your jawbone so that future dental treatments can be more successful.
Trust Your Smile to Kennestone Periodontics
If you’re considering bone grafting or have questions about your oral health, the team at Kennestone Periodontics is here to help. Our skilled and caring professionals will guide you through the process and make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way. Located conveniently for patients in Marietta and nearby areas, we’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Take the first step toward a stronger smile—schedule your consultation with Kennestone Periodontics today!