Bone grafting is a type of oral surgery to restore a jawbone that is losing bone mass. This surgical procedure is recommended if you don't have enough bone to support teeth and are at risk of tooth loss. You might also need it before some dental procedures where a certain bone density is essential for the success of the procedure. Bone grafting is usually completed in under 90 minutes. The bone graft location and amount of grafting material involved will impact the time. We will provide local anesthetic and sedation, to make you as comfortable as possible.
Bone loss can occur for a range of reasons. Health, age, and some medications can increase your risks. Also, periodontal disease causes it, too, because the bacteria under the gum line breaks down the bone. Whatever the reason, a bone graft counteracts the issue, so teeth roots and dental implant posts are secured, and preventing other related oral health issues.
Different bone graft procedures can be used; your specific bone grafting procedure will depend on your individual situation and needs. Ridge augmentation is often used for those who have had missing teeth and the underlying bone has deteriorated. Socket preservation is done after tooth extractions; the bone graft is placed into the empty socket to help prevent bone loss. If your sinus area has sagged due to tooth loss, a bone graft is placed underneath the sinus in a procedure known as a sinus lift. Periodontal bone grafts restore bone density that has been impacted by severe gum disease to support teeth and facial structure again.
A bone graft can restore a sunken jaw or facial structure when bone density drops, or is done to prevent it, as well as further tooth loss, after a tooth extraction. Tooth loss causes bone loss, which leads to other teeth becoming loose and falling out, so this stops that cycle.
Bone grafting is often needed before dental implant placement, so the dental implant post can be fused to the bone properly. The surgical sites from the grafting procedure will need to heal fully before the implant procedure can be completed.
The surgical site will be sore for a few days, but the discomfort should be manageable with over-the-counter inflammation and pain medication and ice packs.
The Toronto Smile Center team will work hard to make the experience as positive as possible. With local anesthetic and prescription pain medication for afterwards, as necessary, and sedation dentistry to relieve anxiety, we try to keep you as comfortable as possible. You don't need to worry about the procedure being painful or unbearable.
We will address any concerns you have, and can work around your individual needs; feel free to ask your dentist about anything, and let us know if you have any special considerations. Our friendly, approachable team make sure you understand what is going on at every step, and aim to make your visit pleasant, not painful!
Gum graft surgery restores gums that are worn away or receding, so they are no longer able to protect teeth the way they should. Whether your loss of gum tissue is due to periodontal disease, trauma, genetics, wear and tear from aggressive tooth brushing, braces, or other causes, gum grafts can help.
Even patients with gingivitis, periodontal disease or other gum disease can have gum graft surgery to restore the loss of gums that is associated with these diseases.
The gum graft procedure is generally a minor surgery, and any discomfort is minimal, and managed with local anesthetic during the procedure and over-the-counter pain medication afterwards. Soft tissue is taken from a donor or your cheek or palate. Generally, using your own tissue for this soft tissue graft is recommended for better results.
The gum tissue is then applied to the gum line, where it is needed. This can either create more bulk to your existing gum tissues or expand them further down the teeth to cover exposed root surfaces. Placement of gum tissue is carefully planned to support and stabilize teeth.
The gum tissue is carefully positioned at the graft site, and then the area is stitched, using sutures or stitches. The stitches may dissolve and fall out on their own or you may need to book another appointment to have them removed. You will be given full post-operative care instructions
Depending on how much tissue needs to be grafted, the procedure can be done in under an hour. If we need to expand the coverage of gums to protect root surfaces, the procedure will take longer than simply bulking up gum tissue. We offer sedation if the procedure will be lengthy, or for patients who would prefer it for anxiety or other reasons.
The graft site should heal within two weeks. Although you can eat and drink again nearly immediately, you should avoid hot food and drink, as well as anything spicy, hard, or crunchy. You won't be able to brush around the graft site until it is healed, but you can keep the area clean with salt water rinses.
At Toronto Smile Centre, we understand the importance of comprehensive dental surgery services, and that's why we offer a wide range of specialized procedures to address various oral health needs. If you're seeking a more relaxed dental experience, our Sedation Dentistry in Toronto can help ease any anxiety or discomfort. For those facing the need for Wisdom Teeth Removal in Toronto, our experienced team is here to ensure a smooth and comfortable procedure. And for all your dental needs, our dedicated Dentist in Toronto is ready to provide top-quality care and support throughout your dental journey.
