Bone Graft Surgery in Murfreesoboro, TN

Dental bone grafting is a procedure used to rebuild areas of the jawbone that have lost volume or density. A grafting material is placed in the area of bone loss, where it provides a foundation for new bone to develop. Over time, the graft integrates with your existing bone to create a stronger foundation for your teeth or dental implants.

Dental implants require adequate bone height, width, and density for proper support and long-term stability. If bone loss has occurred after tooth loss, periodontal disease, trauma, or another condition, there may not be enough bone to securely support an implant. Bone grafting can rebuild the area and prepare it for successful implant placement.

Not always. Bone grafting is only needed when there isn’t enough healthy bone to properly support a dental implant. Dr. Gaither uses detailed imaging and a comprehensive exam to determine whether your existing bone is sufficient or if grafting is recommended to ensure long-term implant stability and success.

Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the procedure is. Bone grafting is performed with local anesthesia, and sedation options are available for added comfort if needed. Mild soreness, swelling, or tenderness afterward is normal and typically improves within a few days as healing begins. Most patients are able to return to normal daily activities relatively quickly.

Jawbone loss can occur for several reasons, including missing teeth, periodontal disease, dental trauma, infection, or prolonged tooth loss. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding bone no longer receives stimulation from the tooth root and can gradually shrink over time.

If there is insufficient bone to support an implant, placing an implant without addressing the deficiency may compromise its stability and long-term function. Depending on your anatomy, bone grafting may be recommended to rebuild the treatment area and create a stronger foundation for implant placement.

During a bone grafting procedure at Gaither Perio and Dental Implants, the treatment area is carefully prepared and grafting material is placed where additional bone is needed. The graft is secured and allowed to heal as your body gradually develops new bone in the area. The specific technique and grafting material used will depend on your needs.

In some cases, bone grafting and dental implant placement can be performed during the same procedure. Whether this is possible depends on the amount and location of existing bone and the stability that can be achieved when the implant is placed. Dr. Gaither will determine the appropriate approach based on your individual anatomy and treatment plan.

Bone grafting is performed with patient comfort in mind, and local anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Sedation options are also available for patients who would benefit from additional relaxation. Some soreness or swelling can occur during the initial healing period, and your team will provide detailed post-operative instructions to help minimize discomfort.

After bone grafting, you may experience some swelling, tenderness, or sensitivity around the treatment area. Following your post-operative instructions is important for protecting the graft while it heals. Dr. Gaither and his team will monitor your progress and provide guidance throughout the healing process.

Bone grafting may be used to address certain areas of bone loss associated with periodontal disease. The appropriate treatment depends on the location, severity, and pattern of bone loss, as well as the health of the surrounding gums and teeth. An evaluation with our periodontist at Gaither Perio and Dental Implants can help determine whether bone grafting may be beneficial.

Healing time depends on the size and location of the graft, as well as your individual health and treatment goals. In many cases, initial healing takes a few weeks, but full integration of the graft with your natural bone can take several months. This healing period is important because it ensures a strong, stable foundation for future dental implant placement or restorative treatment.

The type of bone grafting needed depends on where bone has been lost and how much additional bone is required. Some patients will need localized grafting around a missing tooth, while others may require more extensive augmentation to rebuild bone for dental implants. Dr. Gaither will use his advanced expertise and state-of-the-art imaging tools to determine the appropriate approach for you.