A dental implant is the ideal solution for a functional and natural-looking tooth replacement, but for long-lasting results, implants need a strong foundation of bone. When a patient needs a greater base of bone to secure an implant, Dr. Deborah K. Ruprecht, DDS provides grafting services for patients in Newport Beach, California. A specialist in implants and bone grafting procedures, Dr. Ruprecht enjoys helping patients have a better quality of life with healthy, natural and esthetic options. Call us at 949-833-2263 today or request an appointment online.
Bone Grafting Q&A
What is bone grafting?
Bone grafting is an oral surgery procedure that encourages your body to build new bone tissue and is often done to prepare for dental implants. Without adequate bone tissue, an implant cannot properly anchor and sustain the strong forces we place on our teeth. Grafting helps create the solid foundation to support an implant with lasting results.
Why would I need bone grafting?
One common condition where bone grafting enhances dental health is when you have lost one or more teeth and your bone volume has deteriorated. In this case, a bone graft helps rebuild the structural loss needed to support implants.
Also, bone grafting at the time of an extraction is when bone graft material is placed into a tooth socket. Called “socket preservation,” it helps prevent the bone from collapsing, increases the volume and density of the jawbone, and prepares the site for tooth replacement.
What happens during bone grafting?
Most bone grafts can be performed using local anesthesia. Dr. Ruprecht also offers oral sedatives or IV sedation if needed. Once you are relaxed and comfortable, Dr. Ruprecht makes a small access space at the site and places the grafting material to build up the area of deficient bone. The new bone then integrates with your natural bone tissue after it has healed.
For accelerated healing and improved surgical results, Dr. Ruprecht offers platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) as part of bone grafting services. This technology uses a small portion of your own blood to create a powerful biomaterial made of your own platelets and growth factors that is then applied to the surgical site. The added benefit of less swelling and discomfort helps with recovery time.
What happens after bone grafting?
In the months following surgery, your body will replace the graft with its own bone, reverse the decline in bone quantity and create a greater foundation for implants and restorative dentistry.
Dr. Ruprecht will provide written post-operative instructions for your procedure. Following these guidelines is an important step in a successful recovery and results.
She will also prescribe medications for discomfort, natural healing supplements, and antibiotics as needed. In addition to remaining in contact with you following surgery, Dr. Ruprecht will schedule one or more follow-up visits to monitor your healing and outline the next steps in your treatment.
If you would like to explore bone grafts further, call 949-833-2263 or request an appointment with Dr. Ruprecht online.