Lake Norman Oral & Facial Surgery • Dr. Raymond J. Haigney II • 9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 • (704) 987-3132
9727 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 • (704) 987-3132
Bone Grafting for Patients with Bone Loss
Teeth play a variety of important roles beyond simply allowing you to bite and chew. Having a full set of teeth is also critical in maintaining the overall health of your jawbone. When a tooth or teeth is lost, the part of the jaw that is responsible for anchoring teeth (aveolar bone) can begin to dissolve. When this occur, jawbone loss can begin to develop.
Patients who experience jawbone loss can face a range of associated issues, such as the following:
- Collapsed facial profile
- Difficulty speaking
- Issues developing in the teeth that are remaining
- TMJ
- Worsened nutrition
- Wrinkling skin
Patients who experience this loss of bone may require a bone graft, which is a surgical procedure that involves transplanting a bone or using a synthetic material to repair joints or bones that have become damaged or to help facilitate the growth of new bone.
At Lake Norman Oral & Facial Surgery, we offer a full range of oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures, specializing in facial reconstruction, facial surgery, corrective jaw surgery, obstructive sleep apnea, and wisdom tooth removal. If you would like to learn more about our services, or schedule an appointment for bone grafting, contact us today. New patients are welcome and a referral from another doctor is not required.
Bone Graft Candidates
There are a variety of circumstances when a bone graft will be suggested, including the following:
- Fusion: Fusion surgery is a process whereby two bones are helped to grow together, typically across a diseased joint.
- Fractures: If a fracture is failing to heal over time, a bone graft may be performed to repair the fracture.
- Regeneration: When a bone is lost due to disease, injury, or infection, regeneration may be used to replace the bone
- Implantation: Bone grafting is commonly used to facilitate the healing process of new implants
Types of Bone Grafts
When accepted by the body, a bone graft will provide a suitable and stable framework that will allow the new bone to grow. The two most common types of bone grafts are:
- Autograft: This refers to a bone graft wherein the material that is used is bone that is taken from your own body, typically from areas such as the wrist, hips, or ribs.
- Allograft: This refers to a bone graft wherein the material that is used comes from a cadaver or deceased donor.
Bone Graft Risks
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, such as patients having an adverse reaction to the anesthesia, developing an infection, or bleeding. Additional risks include the following:
- Inflammation
- Injury to the nerve
- Pain
- Reabsorption of the graft
- Swelling
It is also important to be aware that not all bone graft procedures are successful. Be sure to talk with your dentist about the risks involved in having this procedure, as well as steps you can take to improve the likelihood that your procedure will be successful.
Caring for Bone Grafting
Following your procedure, you will likely experience some pain and discomfort once the anesthesia begins to wear off. Patients can typically manage this pain with OTC medications, but in certain cases your dentist may prescribe stronger medication. If you are prescribed medication, it is critical to follow the prescribed dosage.
Once the procedure is complete, the bone will need approximately three to six months before it will be ready for an implant. During this time period, it is essential to practice good oral health habits every day. By maintaining these regular self-care habits, you will reduce the likelihood of developing additional issues in the future and enjoy the benefits of your Bone Grafting for many years to come.
- Brushing: The best way to remove plague, prevent decay, and preserve the longevity of your bone graft is to brush and clean your teeth at least twice daily. To achieve maximum results, be sure your toothbrush is the appropriate size and shape to fit your mouth and allows you to reach all areas of the mouth easily.
- Flossing: Patients who floss regularly significantly reduce the likelihood of developing periodontal disease. For patients who have an aversion to flossing, interdental cleaners may be a better alternative.
- Additional Supports: In addition to brushing and flossing every day, patients who regularly use mouth wash, avoid sweetened beverages and/or use a straw while drinking sweetened beverages, and who swish their mouth with water following every meal enjoy improved oral health and reduce the chance of developing tooth decay.
- Regular Dental Checkups: While practicing good self-care at home is critical, it is also important to schedule regular dental exams every six months. In doing so, your dentist can perform deep cleanings and address issues before they develop into something worse.
Cost of Bone Graft
The cost of bone grafting will be determined by a variety of factors, such as the severity of your condition, any unique oral or health issues you have that may complicate the procedure, and what type of dental insurance plan you have. Our office will file your claim, handle the paperwork, and ensure you maximize your insurance reimbursement. The remaining balance following your insurance coverage will be your responsibility.
Prior to performing a bone graft, we will discuss the expected cost, as well as payment plan options that are available to you, such as Lending Club and Care Credit, which offer 6 and 12 month interest-free payment plans.
For your convenience, we accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and American Express.
Schedule Your Appointment
At Lake Norman Oral and Facial Surgery, we are committed to treating our patients the way we would expect to be treated. Because Dr. Haigney is a Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, you can be confident you will receive care that implements the latest dental advancements and is informed by current research and best practices, resulting in you achieving the results you deserve.
To schedule a Bone Grafting appointment or consultation, contact our staff at (704) 255-5888 or request an appointment online.