Restore Eligibility for Dental Implants with a Bone Grafting Procedure
Bone deterioration or atrophy is a common process after tooth loss, and patients who are undergoing dental implant treatment may require a bone grafting procedure to augment their jawbone to become eligible to receive dental implants. Dr. Michael McCartney can perform the bone graft, place the implants, and restore the implants all under one roof at Adel Dental Associates in Adel, GA.
What is a Dental Bone Graft?
The primary objective of a bone graft is to increase the density and mass of the jawbone. While a bone grafting procedure can be performed for other purposes, it is most commonly performed to increase the height or width of the jawbone before implant surgery. In order for dental implants to be successful, they must be completely surrounded by healthy, dense bone. Once a bone graft has healed, the jawbone is well-equipped to accommodate a dental implant.
Bone grafting material can be harvested from your own tissue, from a donor, or made from synthetic materials. Oftentimes, the type of bone necessary will depend on your specific situation.
Who is a Candidate for a Bone Grafting Procedure?
In order to qualify for a bone grafting procedure, patients must be in good oral and overall health. They must also be free of any systemic conditions or diseases that could pose a health risk or hinder the success of treatment, such as periodontal disease.
During an initial consultation, Dr. McCartney will determine whether a bone graft will be necessary in your case. To evaluate the health of the adjacent teeth and surrounding bone, special x-rays will be taken. If the jawbone tissue is questionable, a 3-D cone beam may be obtained to establish the most optimal location for a bone graft. If a graft is necessary, he will explain how this can impact the overall timeline for your dental implants treatment.
Bone Grafting Treatment Process
Typically, a bone grafting procedure can be completed in our office in approximately one hour. While sedation is not required, many patients prefer it so they can feel relaxed and comfortable during the treatment. Sedation options will be discussed with you prior to the day of surgery.
When you arrive to our office for your procedure, you will be escorted to one of our comfortable treatment rooms while our team prepares. During the treatment, you will receive:
- Local Anesthesia: To make sure you are comfortable, local anesthesia will be administered to numb your gums and surrounding teeth.
- Incisions: A small opening will be created in your gums so Dr. McCartney can access the area of the jawbone that is deficient.
- Bone Graft: The bone grafting material will be placed to supplement the jawbone, and the graft may be secured with tiny screws.
- Stitches: Once the bone graft is complete, the surgical site will be closed with sutures. Typically, the sutures will dissolve on their own in a few days.
Healing and Recovery
Following a bone grafting procedure, it takes time for the jawbone to heal. Although your post-operative discomfort will dissipate within the first week or two, it takes approximately three to four months for complete recovery. Once the healing is complete, surgery can be performed to place dental implants.
Comprehensive Implant Care Under One Roof
We understand that life is busy. Finding time for multiple dental visits can be challenging. Unlike many dental practices, Adele Dental Associates offers all implant-related procedures under one roof. Dr. McCartney is qualified and experienced in implant dentistry. From the initial bone grafting procedure to your final implant restoration, we are proud to offer comprehensive services for your convenience.
Schedule a Consultation with Us
If you have been told that you are not a candidate for dental implants due to insufficient jawbone strength, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. McCartney. He can perform a bone grafting procedure that can restore your eligibility for dental implants. Call our office at (229) 896-7679 or contact us online.
