How Long is Recovery From Dental Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a procedure that dental professionals often use in preparation for dental implant surgery. When a patient lacks adequate jawbone structure needed to support an implant, bone grafting is a good solution. The bone graft is placed to strengthen the jaw prior to the placement of the dental implant to ensure it can handle the strong chewing forces. A weak or damaged jawbone is not able to support an implant and will likely fail without the grafting.
Potential grafting patients are commonly interested in understanding the expected recovery timeline, which is summarized below.
Tooth and Bone Loss
Following the loss of a tooth, it is possible for the jawbone to experience damage and resorption. The jawbone actually relies on stimulation, which it receives from chewing. This regular stimulation maintains the bone and also helps prevent the loss of bone. When a patient loses a tooth, it is also common for them to experience resorption or bone loss.
The prompt replacement of a missing tooth preserves the jawbone structure and also prevents the loss of bone tissue. Bone grafts can be avoided when a lost tooth is quickly replaced.
Procedure
The bone grafting will be completed before the dental implant is surgically placed. Patients who do not have adequate bone structure needed to support an implant are good candidates for bone grafting. Patients with enough jawbone structure do not require bone grafting prior to the implant placement.
Possible Materials
The bone graft is placed in its location with low bone mass. Below are materials that are commonly used for bone grafting:
- Human bone (from the patient or a donor)
- Animal bone
- Synthetic materials
These materials each have unique advantages and limitations. Patients must discuss these materials with their provider to determine which one will best meet their specific needs. For example, if patients want to use their own bone for grafting, they should expect a longer recovery timeline and potentially higher cost.
Recovery Timeline
Following the procedure, the dentist may prescribe an antibiotic to lower the risk of infection. An over-the-counter pain medication can typically manage any post-procedure discomfort. It can take a few weeks for the body to fully heal from the procedure.
The various factors listed below can impact the timeline for recovery from gum grafting:
- Patient's age
- Overall health of the patient
- Type of grafting procedure
- Materials being used
- Complications
Bone grafting recovery typically takes a few weeks for the patient to fully recover, but it can take up to two months or longer in some cases.
In order for the dental implant to be placed, the bone graft needs to fuse with the natural bone. It typically takes a few months for the bone to fuse to the implant. Dental professionals will schedule regular appointments following bone grafting to monitor the graft and the patient’s recovery.
If you are considering a dental implant to replace a missing tooth, call the office today. We can determine if you are a good candidate for bone grafting. Our team can also discuss any questions you have regarding the procedure and expected recovery timeline.