Bone grafting is a dental procedure commonly used to treat advanced gum disease. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, occurs when bacteria in plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, causing inflammation and damaging the bone under the gums. As the bone deteriorates, the teeth can become loose and may need to be extracted.
The benefit of bone grafting in Matthews, NC, is its ability to strengthen your jaw bone. The procedure is usually performed before a dental implant when the jaw needs extra support to hold the implant.
Our periodontist in Matthews, Dr. Eric F. D’Silva, specializes in providing effective, quality dental solutions, such as bone grafting, to treat periodontal diseases. He has vast knowledge about bone grafts and their benefits for gum disease treatment.
What Is a Bone Graft?
A bone graft is a procedure in which bone tissue replaces damaged or missing bone. In a dental setting, a bone graft procedure involves using bone tissues from another part of the body, usually the jaw, to replace lost bone elsewhere. This helps regenerate new bone and restores the support needed for a healthy smile.
Bone grafting is often used in treating gum recession and periodontal diseases, and it helps prevent tooth loss by strengthening the bone around the tooth’s root. It is also used in dental implantology to strengthen the jaw in readiness for the implant.
When Is Dental Bone Grafting Necessary?
People who have experienced jaw trauma, have periodontal disease, or have suffered from bone loss may benefit from dental bone grafts. These candidates may not have enough healthy bone in their jaw to support a dental implant, making a graft necessary to build up tissues.
Dr. D’Silva may recommend bone grafting if you:
- plan to replace a missing tooth with an implant.
- are having a tooth extraction.
- have areas of bone loss as a result of gum disease.
- need to strengthen the jaw before getting dentures.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Recognizing the symptoms of gum disease is important, as it can help prevent the onset of more complex dental problems. You should consult with a gum specialist immediately if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Swollen gums: Healthy gums should appear pink and firm, so any changes in color or texture could indicate a problem.
- Bad breath: Persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene practices could indicate an underlying issue such as gum disease.
- Gum recession: This involves gum tissues retracting from the teeth they surround, which exposes the tooth roots underneath.
What to Expect Before, During, and After
Before a bone grafting procedure, you must meet with a periodontist, or gum specialist, for a consultation and to discuss your medical history and any underlying conditions. You may also undergo imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to determine the best approach for the bone graft.
During the procedure, you will be placed under anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable. The periodontist will then remove a piece of bone from another part of the body, often the jaw, to fill in the damaged area.
Afterward, there may be discomfort, swelling, and bruising at the graft site, which can be managed with pain medications and ice packs. Following post-operative instructions, including avoiding strenuous activities and sticking to a soft diet, is important for the graft to heal properly.
Other Gum Disease Medical Procedures
While bone grafting is a common procedure used to treat severe cases of gum disease, several other procedures can be considered. They include:
- Scaling and root planing: This involves deep cleaning the teeth and gums to remove plaque and tartar buildup to help prevent gum disease.
- Antibiotics: Medication can be prescribed to help reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth that can lead to gum disease.
- Laser therapy: This involves using a laser to remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gums, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Consult with a Gum Specialist in Matthews, NC
Gum health is a crucial aspect of oral health and consulting with a gum specialist can be highly beneficial. Our periodontist at Pinnacle Periodontics & Dental Implants specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the gums and surrounding tissues. We offer bone grafting in Mathews to improve the jaw bone in preparation for other necessary dental treatments and to improve your mouth and facial appearance. When you visit, Dr. D’Silva will provide exceptional dental treatment appropriate for your condition.
In addition to treating gum disease, our periodontist can help you with other gum-related issues, such as recession. By consulting with us, you will receive a comprehensive evaluation of your gum health and treatment recommendations to address any concerns. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get closer to perfect oral health.
