Patients with advanced periodontal disease may have teeth that have become very loose or have fallen out entirely. As a result of the missing tooth or teeth, bone material can begin to diminish as well. When this occurs, it may be necessary to have a marin bone graft procedure to replace the lost bone.
Another consequence of advanced periodontal disease is severe gum recession, which not only creates an imbalanced appearance to your smile, but also increases your risk of developing infections and having tooth sensitivity. Although gums do not naturally regenerate, there are procedures such as a gum graft or Pinhole Surgical Technique that can be performed to replace the lost gum tissue.
Prior to performing a bone or gum graft, the first step will be to address the underlying issue causing the periodontal disease and/or gum recession. This may include a scaling and root planing procedure, osseous surgery, and/or a change in lifestyle habits. If a tooth or teeth are missing long enough, there may be enough jawbone lost that it can no longer support the placement of a dental implant in which case a bone graft will be necessary.
Placement of a dental bone graft is often the first step in the dental implant process, though this may not be necessary for patients whose tooth has recently been lost or extracted or who have a sufficient amount of jawbone material still available. Following the loss of a tooth, the alveolar bone, which is responsible for holding and supporting your teeth begins to atrophy due to lack of stimulation. Additionally, the jawbone can begin to decay as well, as it is no longer being strengthened by regular chewing.
For patients who do require a bone or gum graft, the surgical procedure is a safe and effective way to rebuild or repair bone and tissue by transplanting healthy bone (or tissue from your palate to restore your gums), which will recreate the missing supporting tissues and bone and allow for secure placement of an implant. One method that may be applied to facilitate the healing process of either a bone or gum graft is placing tissue-stimulating growth factor proteins between the bone and gum.
What Happens After the Bone Grafting Procedure?
Following your bone grafting procedure, you will likely be given antibiotics in order to reduce your risk of infection. You may also be given a prescription for pain medication. It is important to take these pills as prescribed until your prescription runs out and do not consume alcohol or operate a vehicle while taking pain medication.
You will have to schedule a follow up visit or potentially several visits so your periodontist can monitor the status of your graft. Once enough new bone has regenerated, you will be ready to schedule your appointment for placement of your dental implant. At this appointment, your periodontist will place a titanium post into your jawbone. Next, it will be necessary to wait several months for the post and bone to integrate, after which your permanent crown is placed.
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