Is it Easy to Replace Bone during Extractions and Osseous Surgery?

What is Dental Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is a procedure in which osseous (bone) material is surgically fused to the patient’s existing bone. 

Grafting is done in order to restore bone density to the jaw where it is needed, whether it be to preserve the health of the teeth and gums or to prepare the area for the placement of a dental implant.

Where Does Bone Graft Material Come From?

There are a few different types of dental bone grafting, all with different sources. The different types and sources of dental bone grafts include:

• Autograft: Bone is harvested from other parts of the patient’s body, such as the tibia, hip, or even the posterior region of the jaw. Autografts are usually the most favorable option, as they come directly from the patient’s own body. This greatly reduces the chances of the body rejecting the graft. Autografting may not always be an option for patients who have pre-existing bone conditions or diseases.

• Allograft: Allograft material is harvested from a cadaver. The bone is tested to ensure that it is healthy and safe for use. Allograft bone grafts typically experience a high success rate, as the material is organic and comes from a human source.

• Xenograft: Xenograft bone grafting material is harvested from an animal source. Bovine (cow) is the most popular source for xenograft material and has proven to be widely successful.

• Synthetic: Synthetic bone graft material is man-made, and is quickly gaining popularity. Synthetic grafting material is easily accessible and does not have to be harvested from another source.

The type of grafting used during your extractions or osseous surgery will depend on your personal medical history and the discretion of your dental professional.

Is it Easy to Replace Dental Bone?

While bone grafting may sound like a complicated process, it is actually quite simple. 

To complete a bone graft, the dental professional makes an incision in the patient’s existing bone and applies the graft. A dissolvable membrane is placed over the graft to help secure the graft and encourage bone fusion. The incision is then sewed up, completing the procedure.

The patient will be given detailed post-op instructions, and healing will be closely monitored for the next few weeks. Healing time will vary from patient to patient, but most patients are healed about two months after their bone grafting procedure.

Willow Glen Dental Specialists: Best Oral Surgery in San Jose

Here at Willow Glen Dental Specialists, we are proud to offer bone grafting and other comprehensive oral surgery services in San Jose, California. 

To learn more about dental bone grafting in San Jose or to get scheduled for a consultation in our San Jose dental office, give us a call anytime at 408-478-9081.

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