Dental Bone Grafts From an Oral Surgeon

An oral surgeon performs a dental bone graft to add volume and density to the places where bone loss has occurred in the jaw. Though it may sound intimidating, it is a surprisingly common and beneficial procedure necessary to restore and support the oral health of many patients. Bone grafts have a very high success rate and are associated with surprisingly little discomfort, especially if performed by an oral surgeon. Here is an overview of the procedure and its benefits that should put those worried at ease.

What is a dental bone graft?

During a dental bone graft, an oral surgeon places grafting material in the jaw area where more bone is needed. They may use bone material from the patient (autogenous), a human donor (allograft), or an animal (xenograft). Also, synthetic material may be used (alloplast). According to The Cleveland Clinic, once in place, this bone grafting material acts as a sort of "scaffold around which a person's own bone tissue can grow and regenerate."

Why does someone need a dental bone graft?

Jaw bone density is one of the foundations of oral health. The jaw bones hold the teeth and help maintain the shape of the maxillofacial region and other important functions. Adequate jaw bone is crucial to speech, chewing, and supporting dental restorations. Here are some key reasons oral surgeons perform bone grafts:

Dental implants

One common reason for this surgery is to prepare the jaw bone to support dental implants. The jaw bone needs a certain amount of density to support the titanium dental implant and attached restoration. However, many patients who have experienced tooth loss have also experienced bone loss and need a bone graft to strengthen the jaw.

Sinus augmentation

This procedure is related to preparing the jaw for dental implants. Sometimes, a patient's sinus cavity encroaches on the available space for implant placement. Therefore, an oral surgeon performs a sinus augmentation to lift the sinus membrane to place bone grafting material beneath it. This procedure increases bone height and allows room for implant placement.

Jaw abnormalities & bone defects

Oral surgeons often perform bone grafts to correct a range of jaw abnormalities. Those who have suffered facial trauma or disease may need a bone graft to restore the bone and repair defects. Bone grafts are often part of a surgical plan to correct congenital jaw deformities as well.

Preserve natural teeth

Bone grafts can even help patients support their natural teeth. Gum disease can erode the bone that supports teeth, causing them to become loose and fall out. An oral surgeon can place a bone graft in the jaw bone around the tooth to help hold it firmly in place and keep it from falling out.

Benefits of a bone graft from an oral surgeon

Oral surgeons usually perform bone grafts on an outpatient basis. They have additional knowledge and training in surgery, facial structure, and sedation, allowing them to perform the procedure precisely while keeping the patient comfortable. In addition, oral surgeons are highly equipped to deal with any complications should they arise. Most patients report little discomfort and can return to work or school a day after the procedure.