A bone graft is a specialized oral surgery procedure used to rebuild bone in areas where it has been lost or weakened. This treatment is often necessary when the jawbone lacks the density or volume needed to support a dental implant or other restorative procedures. During a bone graft in Dearborn, Michigan, our dentist will place additional bone material in the area requiring reinforcement. This material may be taken from your own body, a tissue bank or created synthetically, depending on your needs and medical history.
Why You Might Need Bone Grafting
Bone loss in the jaw is a common consequence of missing teeth. After a tooth is removed or falls out, the bone beneath it begins to resorb, or shrink, due to the lack of stimulation that tooth roots normally provide. This process can begin within months of losing a tooth and may progress over time. If left unaddressed, bone loss can compromise not only your ability to receive dental implants, but also the overall shape of your jaw and the alignment of surrounding teeth.
Bone grafting may also be necessary to treat damage caused by advanced gum disease. Periodontal disease can destroy both soft tissue and the supporting bone structure, leading to tooth instability and eventual loss. A graft can restore bone in these areas and help protect your remaining teeth.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Bone grafting is typically performed in-office using local anesthesia, although sedation options may be available to help you feel more comfortable. Dr. Haytham Fares will make a small incision in the gum to access the bone, then place the grafting material precisely where it is needed. Once placed, the grafted material encourages your body to regenerate bone tissue. The area is then closed with sutures and the healing process begins. Over time, the transplanted bone fuses with your existing bone structure, forming a strong, healthy foundation that can support further dental treatment.
Recovery can vary depending on the type and size of the graft, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few days. It will take several months for the grafted bone to fully integrate with your natural bone. Once healing is complete, your jaw will be ready for implant placement or other restorative procedures.
Restore the Strength of Your Smile
If you have experienced bone loss due to missing teeth, gum disease or injury, bone grafting in Dearborn, Michigan, may be the first step toward restoring your oral health. Contact our office today at 313-561-7070 to schedule a consultation with our experienced dentist and learn whether bone grafting is the right solution for your smile. We are here to help you rebuild a strong, healthy foundation for lasting dental wellness.