If you're missing one or more teeth, dental implants provide convenient solutions. They look and function like natural teeth, boosting your oral health and confidence. But some patients require bone grafting beforehand to ensure the implants are successful. Here are a few frequently asked questions about bone grafting to inform you before undergoing the procedure. 

What You Should Know About Dental Bone Grafting

When are bone grafts necessary?

A dental implant is made up of an artificial tooth atop a metal rod inserted into the jaw bone to create a sturdy foundation. If your jaw has experienced bone loss, a graft provides more to ensure the metal rod fuses correctly with the tissue for a lasting result. Bones naturally degrade as a person grows older, but the jaw can also be worn down by advanced gum disease or dental trauma, such as a facial injury. 

What can I expect during the procedure?

Bone tissue can be taken from your body or an animal donor or artificially created. The new block of tissue is inserted into the treatment area via a small incision and affixed to the jawbone with metal screws. The procedure is relatively pain-free, with only some soreness afterward. 

How long does bone grafting take?

While the procedure itself is relatively brief, it can take six months or longer for the graft to fully fuse with your bone tissue. After the new bone has fused, your jaw should be sturdy enough to accept the implant. 

What happens next?

You'll undergo regular checkups to make sure the graft is healing as expected. If the graft has healed properly, but there still isn't sufficient bone tissue, another transplant can be performed. Once your oral surgeon determines that the graft has healed and the bone tissue is optimal, you'll be ready for dental implants. 

If you're interested in dental implants, consult the Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska. Their board-certified oral surgeons understand that dental procedures can be stressful, so they go above and beyond to make patients feel comfortable with anesthetic services and detailed explanations about the processes. Visit the website to learn more about their bone grafting, or schedule an appointment in Anchorage by calling (907) 561-1430 today.