How Long is Recovery From Dental Bone Grafting?
A procedure that is commonly performed prior to dental implant surgery is bone grafting. Patients who do not have adequate bone structure in their jaw require this procedure in order to properly support an implant. The procedure is completed in advance of the surgical placement of the dental implant. In order to withstand the strong forces of chewing, it is critical for the jaw to have sufficient bone. If the jawbone is damaged, it cannot properly support an implant.
Patients who are considering dental bone grafting often want to understand what to expect during the recovery process. Below is a summary of the bone grafting procedure and recovery.
Tooth Loss
The jawbone can experience damage and resorption after the loss of a tooth. This is because the jawbone is actually stimulated through the routine chewing process. The stimulation of the jawbone helps maintain the bone and prevents bone loss. Tooth loss commonly results in bone loss or resorption.
When a missing tooth is quickly replaced, it helps preserve the bone and prevents bone loss. If a missing tooth is replaced in a timely manner, patients can often avoid a bone graft.
Bone Graft
Bone grafting is commonly performed prior to the surgical placement of a dental implant. A bone graft is used for patients who lack the necessary bone structure required for an implant. Bone grafting is not required for a dental implant when the patient has enough jawbone to support the implant.
Materials
Bone grafting works by strategically placing bone in a location that has low bone mass. There are three different types of materials that can be used in bone grafting:
- Human bone
- Animal bone
- Synthetic material
Each material has specific benefits and challenges. It is important to work closely with the dental professional to select which material will best meet your unique needs. For example, the patient may prefer using their own bone for grafting, but this extends the recovery time. It is important to consider all variables when selecting the type of material to use in bone grafting.
Recovery
An antibiotic may be prescribed following the grafting procedure to help prevent the risk of infection. Most patients are able to manage any post-procedure discomfort with over-the-counter pain medications, but a pain reliever may also be prescribed. Following the procedure, it may take a few weeks for the discomfort to be completely resolved.
The duration of the gum grafting recovery can vary based on different factors. The following can affect the expected recovery time:
- Age of the patient
- General health status
- Type of surgery being performed
- Grafting materials
On average, the recovery from bone grafting takes a few weeks. In some cases, the recovery may take as long as two months.
The bone graft must fuse to the natural bone before the dental implant can be placed. It normally takes the bone a few months to heal completely. Following the bone grafting procedure, the dental professional will schedule regular appointments with the patient to evaluate the bone graft and monitor their recovery.
Call the office today if you are considering an implant and want to determine if you require bone grafting. We can determine if you are a good candidate for grafting and review any questions, including what to expect with your recovery from the procedure.