When a tooth or multiple teeth are missing for an extended period of time and are no longer stimulated in the way that occurs through the natural motion of chewing and biting, the underlying bone begins to decay due to lack of stimulation. If a patient has lost too much jawbone to the point where it is no longer able to support a dental implant, a dental bone graft procedure may be necessary. Dental bone grafting is especially common among patients whose teeth have been missing for some time.
Because the bone grafting procedure involves many steps and separate appointments, there are several different recovery periods associated with having this procedure performed.
During the first part of this process, there will be no recovery period necessary, as this will involve a general evaluation of your overall oral health to determine any underlying issues and whether or not dental bone grafting is the most appropriate treatment option for you. During this part of the process, diagnostic exams may be taken, such as CT scans and/or X-rays, but nothing about this appointment should be painful or uncomfortable or require a recovery period.
If it is determined that you do require a bone graft, a follow up appointment will be scheduled. The type of grafting material used for your procedure will be the biggest determinant as to how much pain and discomfort you will experience during your bone grafting procedure, and consequentially, how long and involved your recovery period will be.
There are generally three different types of grafting materials used for a dental bone graft, which are:
- Human (your own or donated)
- Animal (typically a cow)
- Synthetic materials
Regardless of the type of material used, you will experience little to no discomfort while the procedure is performed. Once the local anesthetic and dental sedation have worn off, however, you will likely begin to experience some mild discomfort and have some swelling. Pain and swelling can often be managed with over-the-counter pain-relieving medication and ice therapy, though in some cases, prescription pain medication may be used, as well as antibiotic treatment. To ensure you avoid developing complications and have a fast recovery process, it is important to take these medications as prescribed and closely follow any additional aftercare instructions that are provided to you following your procedure.
With regards to the recovery period following a dental bone graft, it is important to keep in mind that no two patients are alike, and a range of factors will determine how long the recovery period takes, including age, general health, and whether any additional procedures needed to be performed. In general, though, most people typically recover from a dental bone graft procedure within two weeks, although it may take up to six months or longer for enough bone to regenerate to support an implant. During this period, your periodontist will schedule regular exams to monitor the status of your bone graft. Once they are satisfied enough bone is available, the dental implant can be placed.
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