A bone graft will increase the bone density of your jaw, creating a solid foundation in which to place a dental implant. This is a highly specialised dental procedure, which we can perform here in our clinic in Neutral Bay.
What is a dental bone graft?
A bone graft is performed when there is no longer enough bone in the jaw to support a dental implant. The treatment will vary according to the severity of bone loss that may have occurred as a result of a missing tooth or periodontal disease. If the loss is moderate, a socket graft can be used. This is where a graft material is applied to the socket of a missing tooth to stimulate growth and provide support. In cases where bone loss is more extensive a live bone graft may be necessary, taken from elsewhere in the body.
Causes of dental bone loss
Bone is maintained by the body as long as is deemed necessary, so if you don’t use it, you will lose it. A gap in your smile is not just an aesthetic issue – over time the bone that should be supporting that tooth will shrink, creating a sunken appearance and possibly leading to further tooth loss.
Tooth loss
If you have a tooth missing, your jaw will begin to lose bone density over time. Without the tooth and its roots attached, and the pressure applied by chewing, there is nothing to stimulate bone growth and the body begins to reabsorb the bone tissue.
Periodontal disease
Gums provide cover and protection for the bone around your teeth. In chronic cases of periodontal disease bacteria can gradually infect and damage bone and supporting ligaments, weakening them to the point that they can no longer support your teeth.
Bone grafting procedure
Your condition will be assessed using x-rays and 3D imaging technology. If you lack sufficient bone density and structure necessary for an implant we will explain to you what sort of bone graft and potential sinus lift (sometimes needed for bone grafts in the upper jaw) is required.
Any damaged teeth if present will be removed, and the bone graft material or bone sample will be applied. A period of approximately 4-9 months is needed before placing the implants and new teeth are attached. Your bone will develop around the titanium supports that have been placed, fusing together by a process called Osseointegration (derived from Latin osseus which means “bony”, and integrare “to make whole”) and creating a permanent and secure bond between the implant and your jaw.
If you are in need an emergency dentist in the Lower North Shore we are here to help. Here at Elite Dentistry in Neutral Bay, we do all we can to ensure that any urgent dental problems are dealt with quickly and efficiently. This applies regardless of whether you are an existing patient or a new patient.
Our emergency dentists are available during clinic hours to meet urgent dental needs. We can offer same day appointments for knocked out teeth, dental pain, toothache, broken filings, lost crowns, root canal pain at our Neutral Bay dental practice. Dental emergencies can be very painful, so we do all we can to provide emergency dental services promptly, as we know dental traumas can arrive any moment.
What types of emergency dental treatment do we offer Neutral Bay dental practice?
- Severe toothaches
- Chipped or broken tooth
- Knocked-out tooth
- Partially dislodged tooth
- Lost filling
- Lost crown
- Trapped object between teeth
- Braces repair and removal caused by broken braces or wires
- Loose brackets and bands
- Gum abscesses and swollen gums
- Soft tissue injuries
- Emergency root canal treatments
- Emergency restorative services
FAQs About Bone Grafts
Bone grafting is highly effective in restoring lost bone mass, particularly in cases where patients have experienced bone deterioration due to tooth loss or periodontal disease. This procedure not only enhances the stability of dental implants but also improves the overall oral structure, allowing for more successful long-term outcomes. Properly executed, bone grafting significantly increases the chances of implant success and can greatly improve the aesthetics and function of the dental restoration.
It is uncommon for a dental bone graft to fall out, especially when performed by an experienced dental professional. However, in the initial healing phase, particularly within the first few days, small particles of the graft material might dislodge. This is typically not a cause for concern as the bulk of the graft will remain intact and integrate with the surrounding bone. To minimise any risk, it is crucial to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including avoiding certain foods and not disturbing the graft site.
The healing time for a dental bone graft typically ranges from three to six months, depending on the extent of the graft and the individual patient’s healing capacity. During this period, the grafted material gradually integrates with the existing bone, forming a solid foundation for any future dental work, such as implants. While initial healing may occur within a few weeks, complete bone regeneration and stabilisation take longer, requiring regular follow-up visits to monitor progress and ensure successful integration.
The cost of bone grafting in Australia can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedure and the type of graft material used.
Start the process of achieving a better smile today by arranging an appointment. Just call us or if out of hours use our simple request a callback from and we will call you back when we are open.
Call 02 8350 5840
Start the process of achieving a better smile today by arranging an appointment. Just call us or if out of hours use our simple request a callback from and we will call you back when we are open.
