Bone grafting
When is bone grafting necessary?
Sometimes, the loss of a tooth has consequences for the bone to which its roots were attached. In the absence of roots, bone cells can no longer regenerate, and the bone becomes thinner and thinner, i.e. smaller in volume. This makes it unsuitable for dental implant placement. The implant is a small titanium screw placed in the alveolar bone of the jaw, on which a dental restoration is placed. During healing, which takes several months, the implant fuses with the bone in a process known as osseointegration. A healthy, sufficiently voluminous bone is therefore a prerequisite for considering an implant, or several implants.
To determine whether you need a bone graft, the professionals at Dentistes Outremont will conduct a complete examination of your oral situation. This is done using technological tools such as X-rays and 3D scans. These steps allow us to verify the structure of your teeth and the quality of the bone that will support your implant.
How is bone grafting performed?
- The autogenous graft, which comes from the patient himself.
- The allogenic graft, which comes from an external donor and is most often supplied by a laboratory.
- Synthetic graft, also known as alloplastic.
Following a rigorous evaluation, the Dentistes Outremont surgeon will proceed with the operation. After anesthesia, the soft tissues of the mouth are incised to access the bone and place the graft. The graft is then covered with a membrane to protect it. The graft site is then closed with stitches.
During the healing process, which takes several months, the graft will integrate with the jawbone, producing new bone cells and increasing bone volume and strength. Your dentist will recommend follow-up appointments to ensure that healing is proceeding smoothly. Once healing is complete, you can move on to the next stage of your implant treatment plan.
What precautions should I take after grafting?
Your dentist will provide you with personalized advice on how to care for your mouth after bone grafting. It is important not to smoke for three months after the operation, to allow the graft to set properly.
As with any dental surgery, you'll also need to take a few precautions in the days that follow. Bone grafting is a simple operation, but one that requires careful planning. The professionals at Dentistes Outremont are here to support you and ensure that your bone graft is carried out under optimum conditions.
