About Our Bone Graft After Tooth Extraction Services
When a tooth must be removed, an additional step, called a bone graft after tooth extraction, may have to be performed as well. This helps ensure the dental structures remain viable, preserving your smile.
Here’s what to know about this service and why it might be needed.
What is a Bone Graft After Tooth Extraction?
In the case of a tooth extraction, a bone graft can be performed afterward to increase the density and volume of the tissue in the jawbone. Additional bone is added to this area to boost it up.
Bone is often taken from your own chin or another area of the jaw. However, donor tissue from another human, or even an animal source, are options as well.
Keep in mind, not every tooth extraction requires a bone graft afterward. It’s typically recommended if the bone is damaged beyond repair. It can also be recommended if a dental implant will be used as the replacement option. The graft will keep the walls of the bones from caving, giving the dental implant a more solid foundation.
Finally, another reason a bone graft procedure would be performed after extraction is if the tooth has been missing for a prolonged period. This can lead to deterioration of the bone, requiring a graft to strengthen the area.
How Long Will Healing Take?
Everyone’s body heals differently after a tooth extraction with bone graft, so healing time can vary. Generally, though it takes several weeks.
Make sure you are always following your surgeon’s directions for physical activity, diet, and taking prescribed medications. Also, try to avoid touching the wound with your tongue, which can disturb the area.
Find Out More About Bone Grafts Today
If you have a tooth that needs to be extracted or are in need of dental implants, talk to us about bone grafts after tooth extraction. At Burns Dentistry, we can evaluate your unique situation and make recommendations for next steps forward.
