Bone Grafts

Willow Glen Dental Specialists

Periodontists & Endodontists located in San Jose, CA

Dental bone grafts are needed when extensive damage has been done to the jaw bone by an illness or injury. At Willow Glen Dental Specialists, the team uses dental bone grafts to restore stability to the facial structure and create a foundation for the teeth. Residents living in the San Jose, California, area are encouraged to visit with the team and discuss all of their dental needs and concerns. Call Willow Glen Dental Specialists or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

Bone Grafts Q & A

What is a dental bone graft?

A dental bone graft is used when a person loses a portion of their jaw bone to disease or damage caused by an injury. Pieces of the hip bone may be put in place so the two bones can fuse together. A dental bone graft may be needed to rebuild the jaw or other bony structure if a portion is lost due to cancer or another degenerative bone disease. 

Bone grafts are used to stabilize the jaw and prevent future bone loss. Rebuilding the jaw bone allows for the use of dental implants that can successfully be used to restore a person's smile and maintain the natural structure of the face.

How long does a dental bone graft take to heal?

Just like any other type of broken bone, a bone graft can take from 6-8 weeks to fully heal. A piece of bone taken from another area of the body and attached to a prepared section of the jaw bone will eventually begin to fuse together just like two ends of a broken bone elsewhere in the body. 

Once the bone sections begin to fuse together, they'll create a bond that will hold both pieces together until they're fully healed. Because of the way the jaw is shaped, small screws or rods may be used to help the bones remain connected as the healing process begins.

When is a dental bone graft recommended?

The team at Willow Glen Dental Specialists recommends a dental bone graft when a patient is considering dental implants. For an implant to be secure, the metal post must be placed deeply into the bone. If the bone has started to deteriorate in any way, it may not be strong enough to hold the implant in place. 

A bone graft is used to create the proper amount of bone so the implant can be firmly secured in place. 

Willow Glen Dental Specialists may also recommend a bone graft if you break your jaw. In some cases, breaking your jaw is necessary to prepare your mouth for certain dental appliances. The bone grafting procedure is relatively simple and will heal rather quickly compared to many other procedures.

Other common reasons for a bone graft include:

Advanced gum disease

Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can deteriorate your tooth-supporting structures, including your jawbone. A bone graft rebuilds your jawbone for a healthier smile.

Tooth loss

When you lose a permanent tooth, the bone that once supported it begins to resorb back into your body. The team may recommend a bone graft to rebuild it.

Dental trauma

Severe teeth grinding or a knocked-out tooth can damage the tissue and bone surrounding your teeth. To preserve your tooth-supporting bone, the team recommends a dental bone graft.

To learn more about the dental bone graft procedure, call Willow Glen Dental Specialists or book an appointment online today.