Do gums grow back after bone graft?
An oral health issue that impacts millions of adults each year is gum disease. The issue can range from minor to severe, with symptoms that can include sensitive or swollen gums and even bone loss. When there is damage to the tooth’s supporting structure, it can cause serious issues such as the loss of the tooth. Patients may be surprised to learn from their dental professional that they need to receive a bone graft.
Fortunately, bone grafting is a safe and highly successful procedure. The procedure works by restoring the damaged bone tissue in the jaw and ultimately preserving the patient’s oral health. Another benefit of the bone graft is that it promotes the growth of new bone tissue, which eventually replaces the grafted material.
Signs of Gum Disease
Gum disease is a serious condition that can cause serious oral health problems. In the early stages, this can include pain, redness, or swelling of the gums. As it progresses, there can be gum recession, bone loss, and the loss of teeth. Periodontitis is the most severe form of gum disease, which negatively affects the gum tissue and bones that hold the teeth in place.
In many cases, gum disease is the result of neglect or bad oral hygiene. Symptoms of gum disease are listed below:
- Bad breath, which is chronic
- Red, swollen gums that bleed easily
- Teeth that are wiggly or loose
- Discomfort is common with routine chewing
- Unexplained sensitivity
When plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria reach below the gum line, it can cause an infection of the gum tissue. Over time, this results in damage to the tissue and supporting bone. The lack of support for the teeth can eventually cause tooth loss. Gum disease is actually the most common cause of adult tooth loss. Fortunately, bone grafting can stop the progression of gum disease, restoring the patient’s oral health.
Procedure
The surgical procedure used for bone grafting is relatively simple. It begins with the periodontist or dental professional cutting into the gums and removing infected or damaged gum tissue. The bone graft material is then placed in the treatment area. During the natural healing process, the body creates new bone tissue. This eventually replaces the graft material, which acts as a placeholder and stimulates the new growth.
Healing
In order for the body to heal completely, it can take several months. The bone needs to heal completely before a dental implant can be placed. In cases of minor bone grafting, grafting can sometimes be performed at the same time as the placement of the dental implant. Patients must work with their provider to determine the specific timeline.
Gum Tissue
A common question for patients when considering gum grafting is whether they can expect their gums to grow back following the procedure. Unfortunately, the gums do not regenerate or grow back. Other procedures, such as a gum graft, can be used along with grafting, which can promote the regrowth of gum tissue.
In some cases, the dental professional will opt to use a mesh filter or membranes along with the bone graft, which aids in stimulating the growth of tissue. Dentistry has seen incredible improvements and enhancements to the procedure in recent years. This highly effective treatment is successful in restoring lost bone tissue and helping preserve good oral health for patients.
Patients who are considering bone grafting should call the office today. We can schedule a consultation and answer any questions you have regarding the procedure.