Are Dental Bone Grafts Painful?
One of the best treatment options for replacement of a missing tooth is a dental implant. While dental implants are an excellent solution, they require adequate bone structure in the jaw for support. Some patients lack this needed bone structure and need a dental bone graft. Bone grafting is a surgical procedure which is relatively common. The treatment is commonly used before a dental implant is placed and consists of relocating healthy bone tissue to restore the jaw.
Tooth Loss
When a patient loses one or more teeth, the jawbone fails to be stimulated through routine chewing. Over time, this can result in the loss of bone tissue in the jaw. In order to prevent this type of bone loss, it is critical to replace a missing tooth in a timely manner. When patients fail to do this, it can result in bone resorption. When patients eventually consider a dental implant, they may first require a bone graft because of the damaged bone structure.
Graft Types
There are various types of bone grafts that can be performed. Things such as the location of the missing tooth and the amount of damage can dictate which type of graft will best meet the patient’s needs. Below are some of the most common types of grafts that are used:
- Lateral Ridge Preservation - The lateral ridge preservation graft works to increase the width of the patient’s jawbone, allowing it to support an implant. Human donor bone is commonly used with this type of graft.
- Socket Graft - A socket graft is considered the most common type of bone graft. This graft prevents damage to the alveolar bone. It often uses human donor bone, and the graft is placed into the socket. This works to prevent the collapse of the socket.
- Sinus Lift - Dental professionals often select equine or bone tissue from a horse for this type of graft. In some cases, the equine bone is used in combination with human donor bone. The sinus lift graft is often used for patients who need an implant in their upper jaw but have insufficient jawbone structure.
- Block Bone Graft - A block bone graft is commonly performed for patients with significant bone loss. A small block of bone is obtained from the back of the patient’s jaw for this type of graft. Then the graft is placed and secured with small titanium screws in the area receiving treatment.
Patients should work directly with the dental team to determine which type of graft will best meet their needs.
Recovery
During the recovery process, the bone graft fuses to the natural jawbone. This takes an average of 4-6 months. In more complex bone grafting cases, the healing process can take up to a year. Patients will have frequent appointments for the dental professional to evaluate how the grafting is healing. Once the recovery is complete and the jawbone has healed, the implant can be placed.
Pain
Patients are often curious about what to expect with bone grafting in terms of pain. A bone graft should not cause significant pain. Bone grafting is an outpatient procedure that is relatively common. The patient may be sedated during the procedure to ensure they remain comfortable. An anesthetic is also used to ensure there is no pain. Following the procedure, swelling and minor discomfort are normal. As the mouth heals, these symptoms will improve. An over-the-counter pain medication can be used as needed to manage the pain.
Patients who are considering a dental implant should contact the office for an appointment. The team can help determine if you need a bone graft prior to the implant procedure. This is also a good time to discuss any questions you have regarding the procedure, pain, and recovery.