22
Apr
Understanding the Process of Bone Grafting for Bone Loss
If you have bone loss in your jaw, it can significantly impact your facial structure and health. Insufficient bone mass can make getting dental implants to replace missing teeth harder. Fortunately, with the help of Dr. German Trujillo at Pearlmax Oral Surgery, bone grafting for bone loss will fix this issue and prepare you to replace your missing teeth.
What Is Bone Grafting?
When Dr. Trujillo does a bone graft, he places bone material into the affected area. This bone graft will stimulate new bone growth. Dental implants need a solid foundation; bone grafting will give you that.
Why Is Bone Grafting Necessary for Dental Implants?
When bone has deteriorated because of tooth loss or gum disease, it’s not usually strong enough to support dental implants. Dental implants need a sturdy base to help them stay in place. Your jawbone has to serve as the base for the titanium post that Dr. Trujillo uses to replace your missing tooth root.
What Are Some Different Types of Bone Grafts?
Dr. Trujillo chooses which type of bone grafting you need depending on your overall health and needs. Here are a few of the different types of bone grafts:
- Autografts: Taken from your own body
- Allografts: Sourced from a human donor
- Xenografts: Derived from animal sources
- Allplasts: Synthetic bone-like material
What Can I Expect During the Bone Grafting Procedure?
First, Dr. Trujillo numbs the area with a local anesthetic. In some cases, patients are sedated for this procedure. He will then place the bone grafting material into the area, sometimes securing it with tiny screws or a small membrane. The entire process takes about one to two hours.
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How Long Do I Have to Wait for a Bone Graft to Heal Before Getting Dental Implants?
The bone graft has to integrate with your body’s natural bone, and healing takes some time. For most patients, the healing process takes three to six months, depending on your situation.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects with Bone Grafting?
Any surgical procedure can have risks. With bone grafting, risks can include swelling, minor bruising, and, without proper care, infections. Working with an experienced dentist like Dr. Trujillo will reduce any risks.
The key is to follow all of the post-op instructions he gives you. This includes keeping the area very clean and avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods. Spicy foods can irritate the area, so Dr. Trujillo also recommends avoiding those. Stick with soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or scrambled eggs.
How Do I Know if I’m a Candidate for Bone Grafting for Bone Loss in San Diego, CA?
To find out if bone grafting treatment is a good fit for you, contact Dr. German Trujillo and the team at Pearlmax Oral Surgery. The office is conveniently located at 4520 Executive Dr # 220, San Diego, CA, 92121. Call (858) 434-7554 to start your journey to restoring your smile.
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Dr. German Trujillo
Dr. German Trujillo is a highly skilled Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon with over five years of experience. He earned his dentistry degree in Colombia and completed his specialty training at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Trujillo has worked in both private practice and academia, including teaching at the University of Washington. He is a member of the California Dental Association and the San Diego County Dental Society. Now running his own practice in San Diego, Dr. Trujillo provides full-scope oral surgery services, delivering expert care to his patients with a focus on trust and excellence.