Bone grafting procedures become necessary when insufficient bone structure exists to support dental implants or when bone loss threatens surrounding teeth and facial aesthetics. These surgical techniques rebuild weakened or missing jawbone, creating a stable foundation for tooth replacement while preserving your facial structure and oral health.
At Center for Advanced Dentistry San Jose, we perform bone grafting procedures using advanced techniques and premium materials to ensure optimal healing and long-term success. Our board-certified oral surgeon, Dr. Steve Lim, combines surgical training with restorative care, providing comprehensive treatment from initial surgery through final restoration.
Understanding When Bone Grafts Are Necessary
Several conditions may require oral surgery procedures like bone grafting. The most common reason involves tooth loss, and the natural bone deterioration occurs afterward. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry reports bone loss can reach 25% in the first three months following tooth extraction, making early intervention crucial for preserving jaw structure.
Gum disease represents another leading cause of bone loss requiring grafting procedures. Advanced periodontal disease destroys the supporting tissues around teeth, including the underlying bone. Without treatment, this progressive condition continues to weaken the jaw structure and may lead to additional tooth loss.
Trauma from accidents or injuries can also damage the jawbone, creating defects requiring surgical repair. Similarly, developmental defects or genetic conditions may result in inadequate bone volume for proper tooth support or dental implant placement.
Types of Bone Grafting Materials and Techniques
We utilize several types of bone grafting materials, each selected based on your needs and treatment goals. Autografts use bone harvested from your own body, typically from the chin, wisdom tooth areas, or hip. These grafts offer excellent healing potential because they contain living bone cells and growth factors.
Allografts employ processed bone from donor sources, providing a safe alternative when harvesting your own bone isn’t practical. These materials undergo rigorous processing to ensure safety while maintaining their bone-building properties.
Synthetic bone substitutes offer another option, using biocompatible materials to stimulate natural bone growth. These grafts eliminate the need for additional surgical sites while providing reliable results for many patients.
Socket Preservation Procedures
Socket preservation represents a specific type of bone grafting performed immediately after tooth extractions. We place grafting material into the empty socket and cover it with a protective membrane. This technique prevents the natural collapse and shrinkage that occurs when extraction sites heal without intervention.
Sinus Lift Procedures
Sinus lift procedures address inadequate bone height in the upper jaw’s posterior region. We carefully lift the sinus membrane and place bone grafting material underneath, creating sufficient bone volume for implant placement. This specialized technique requires extensive training and experience to perform safely.
What Can You Expect During Your Bone Grafting Procedure?
We begin every bone grafting procedure with comprehensive planning using advanced imaging technology. Digital scans and X-rays help us determine the exact amount of bone needed and plan the optimal surgical approach for your specific situation.
On the day of surgery, we provide sedation dentistry options to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Local anesthesia numbs the treatment area completely, while sedation helps you remain relaxed and comfortable during surgery.
The actual grafting procedure involves making small incisions in your gum tissue to access the bone area requiring treatment. We then place the selected grafting material precisely where new bone growth is needed. Protective membranes may be used to separate the graft from soft tissues and promote proper healing.
Recovery and Healing Process
Initial healing typically takes several days to weeks, during which you’ll follow specific post-operative instructions to promote proper recovery. We provide detailed guidelines for managing discomfort, maintaining oral hygiene, and protecting the surgical site during healing.
The complete bone regeneration process takes several months, as your body gradually replaces the grafting material with new, living bone tissue. We monitor your progress through follow-up appointments and additional imaging to ensure proper healing before proceeding with implant placement or other planned treatments.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort following bone grafting procedures. Any mild soreness usually responds well to prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications. Swelling may occur for a few days but typically resolves quickly with proper care.
Center for Advanced Dentistry San Jose: Your Bone Grafting Solution
We understand bone grafting procedures represent a significant step in restoring your oral health and smile. Our team combines advanced surgical techniques with compassionate care to deliver exceptional results while ensuring your comfort throughout treatment. Dr. Lim’s board certification in oral surgery and sedation dentistry provides the advanced training necessary for complex bone grafting procedures.
When you’re ready to explore bone grafting options or discuss your tooth replacement needs, we’re here to help you make informed decisions about your oral health. Contact our San Jose office at (408) 292-2848 or request an appointment to schedule your consultation with our experienced team.
