Bone Grafting for Implants in Chicago

Accepting New Patients in South Loop, Oak Lawn, Midway & Orland Park

What is Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure used to enhance the quality and quantity of bone in areas where it has been lost or is insufficient, particularly for dental implants. When a patient doesn’t have enough natural bone to support an implant, a bone graft can be performed to create a stable foundation for the implant.

Why is Bone Grafting Necessary for Dental Implants?

Dental implants require a certain amount of healthy bone to integrate properly. If the jawbone has deteriorated due to tooth loss, periodontal disease, or other factors, it may not provide the support needed for an implant. Bone grafting helps build up the bone structure to make it suitable for implant placement.

How Do I Know If I Have Enough Bone?

After tooth extraction, if the walls of the socket are very thick, they will usually fill naturally with bone in two to three months. However, when the walls of your socket are very thin (such as in your upper and lower front teeth), this type of healing will not be as predictable. In these situations, a bone graft is often placed at the time of tooth extraction to help your body fill in the empty socket with bone. This step will maintain the width and volume of bone you will need for implant placement several months later.

There may be inadequate bone for implant placement if your tooth was removed many years ago and your bony ridge is extremely thin. In this case, a bone graft can be placed next to the thin bone and allowed to heal for up to six months. After the graft has fused to your pre-existing bone, the ridge will be re-entered and the implant placed. Bone grafting is usually a relatively comfortable office procedure. Many different bone-grafting materials are available, including your own bone.

You may also need bone grafting if the sinus cavities in your upper jaw are very large, or very low, and extend into the tooth-bearing areas. This often occurs when teeth in the back of a person’s upper jaw have been removed many years before, and the amount of bone available for implant placement is limited. A “sinus grafting procedure” is then required. Most often, it is performed in the office with local anesthesia and perhaps sedation. During this procedure, the membrane that lines the sinus will be located and elevated. Bone will then be added to restore the bone height and ensure that dental implants of an adequate length can be placed. This procedure often can be performed at the time of implant placement.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BONE GRAFTING FOR IMPLANTS:

1. How long does the bone grafting procedure take?

The bone grafting procedure typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and size of the graft needed.

2. Is bone grafting painful?

Patients usually experience some discomfort, but pain is generally manageable with prescribed medications. Most patients report minimal pain after the procedure.

3. How long does it take to recover from bone grafting?

The initial healing period takes about 1 to 2 weeks, but complete bone integration can take several months. The exact time depends on the individual and the type of graft used.

4. Can I eat normally after the procedure?

You may need to stick to a soft food diet and avoid chewing on the grafted area for a few weeks. Your dentist will provide specific dietary recommendations based on your individual situation.

5. Are there any risks or complications associated with bone grafting?

While complications are rare, they can include infection, graft rejection, or failure of the graft to integrate properly with the existing bone. Your dentist will discuss these risks with you and provide guidance on minimizing them.

6. Will insurance cover the cost of bone grafting?

Coverage varies by insurance provider and plan. It’s best to check with your insurance company to determine what portion of the procedure may be covered.

7. Can bone grafting be done at the same time as implant placement?

In some cases, bone grafting and implant placement can be done simultaneously. This is determined based on the specific conditions of your jawbone and the recommendations of your dental professional.

8. How can I ensure the best outcome from my bone grafting procedure?

Follow your dentist’s pre- and post-operative care instructions carefully, maintain good oral hygiene, and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible outcome.

Bone grafting is a vital procedure that can significantly enhance the success of dental implants by ensuring a stable and healthy foundation. If you’re considering dental implants and have concerns about bone density, discussing bone grafting with your dentist can help you understand your options and prepare for a successful outcome.