Why is grafting needed?

Bone and soft tissue grafts are used to restore deficient areas, thereby allowing for reconstruction possibilities otherwise absent.

After dental removal of teeth, the bone surrounding the missing tooth will slowly begin to resorb (i.e., shrink), resulting in a loss of bone height and width. As bone resorbs the overlying gum tissue, you will also lose both volume and the normal anatomic form. This loss of bone and gum tissue following a tooth extraction often results in functional and cosmetic defects, leaving an unsightly collapsed appearance.

At Great Neck Dental Associates, each doctor takes a proactive stance on tissue preservation. Bone and gum tissue loss following teeth removal can either be significantly reduced or eliminated thanks to advances in grafting procedures and bioengineering. For example, following a tooth extraction, a specially bioengineered dental bone graft material is placed within the extraction socket. The bone graft material supports new bone growth and has been shown to preserve bone and overlying soft tissue following tooth removal.

What is the process of Bone Grafting?

Grafting is a safe procedure, and we can discuss your options in-depth with you before the surgery takes place to ensure you’re receiving the appropriate type of treatment for your needs. You’ll typically be given a local anesthetic to reduce pain while the procedure is taking place and can opt for intravenous sedation if you need it. Once the procedure is completed, you will be provided with antibiotics as well as medication for pain if required. You will be advised not to consume specific foods to avoid putting pressure on the graft. You should be able to carry on with your day-to-day life as usual while the graft is healing.

Who is a good candidate for Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is ideal for anyone wishing to add implants to their mouths but doesn’t currently have enough bone for them to be installed safely or securely.

If you require a bone graft for a dental implant, contact our office and come in for a bone graft consultation.