What is a Bone Graft, and When is it Needed?

Dental implants are popular because they replace gaps in your smile with a long-lasting, natural-looking restoration. But for an implant to be successful, it must be placed into a healthy jawbone. If your jawbone has deteriorated due to trauma or gum disease, a bone graft may be needed. The Pacific Coast Center for Oral, Facial & Cosmetic Surgery can build up the area and provide a strong foundation for future dental restorations.

Dr. Husam Elias understands that a bone graft requires special skill and knowledge to ensure excellent results. If you have concerns about receiving a bone graft, our team can help you understand the process. Call now for a consultation and see why our practice is a top choice for bone grafts in Pasadena, CA.

What causes jawbone deterioration?

Jawbone deterioration is common among patients missing one or more teeth. This is because the underlying bone no longer receives stimulation from the tooth root. Unfortunately, tooth loss is a significant source of embarrassment and discomfort, especially when gaps in the smile are obvious. Eating and speaking become more difficult as the bone continues to weaken.

Dental implants are an ideal solution for missing teeth, but the jawbone must be strong enough to support the restoration. A bone graft can provide a sufficient foundation and ensure the implant procedure is successful.

Where does a bone graft come from?

Your options for bone graft surgery vary depending on your health and the amount of deterioration involved. During a consultation in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Elias can review the following solutions:

• Autograft: This involves taking bone from your body or a donor's body from areas like the chin or hip. An autograft procedure can be completed in our office using local anesthesia or at a surgical site using general anesthesia.
• Xenograft: The bone graft material is taken from an animal, usually a cow. These grafts are compatible with human bodies and can provide a strong foundation for your dental restoration.
• Alloplast: Lab-made materials can simulate the properties of natural bone. Our team can craft and shape the graft to complement your existing bone structure.

What happens once you have the graft?

Dr. Elias begins a bone graft by numbing your gums and placing an incision through the soft tissue. Once the graft is in place, we close the incision with sutures and clean the area.

After your procedure, you will need to follow a strict set of recovery instructions and return for periodic check-ups to ensure proper healing. We'll provide information about cleaning and caring for the area. Once the recovery period is over, we can review the next steps in your dental treatment plan. Dental implants may be placed at this point, depending on the condition of your jawbone and overall oral health.

Ask about bone graft surgery for a healthier smile

A bone graft can make all the difference in the success of your dental implants. The Pacific Coast Center for Oral, Facial & Cosmetic Surgery is proud to perform state-of-the-art bone graft procedures in Pasadena, CA. Contact our team to learn more about our advanced processes and start planning your new smile. Dr. Husam Elias looks forward to helping you achieve the healthy and beautiful results you desire.