A dental bone graft is a the surgical placement of bone material into the jaw to add volume and density where bone loss has occurred to accelerate healing before continuing with treatment . Bone loss is most often caused by tooth loss, infection, or gum disease. Bone grafts are very common and often required before the placement of dental implants.
Do dental bone grafts hurt?
Most patients report little to no pain following the placement of a bone graft and take over-the-counter pain relievers for any discomfort. Some normal post operative side effects include minimal swelling and bruising at the surgical site, but these should diminish within a few days after the surgery.
What kind of bone will my dentist use?
A dentist will typically use one of two options:
- Allograft : bone graft from the same species, usually from a cadaver
- Xenograft: bone graft from a different species, usually bovine
How long does it take for a bone graft to heal?
You will be able to return to normal everyday activities as soon as 24 hours after your surgery. The bone graft will take anywhere from 3-9 months to fully integrate into your existing jaw bone. It varies significantly based on the type of bone graft, locations, and circumstances surrounding the placement of the graft. Your dentist will closely monitor your healing!
Please don’t hesitate to contact your dentist if you have any questions about bone grafts!