Reasons for Jawbone Grafting in Lee's Summit

As an oral surgeon, local dentist offices regularly refer patients to us for a jawbone grafting in Lee's Summit. Jawbone grafting is typically necessary because the bone density is no longer strong enough. This can happen due to gum disease, infection, tooth loss, trauma or some type of birth defect.

Problems due to a lack of treatment

For example, if someone has a dental infection and does not receive treatment, that infection can create problems with the jawbone. Tooth loss can result from infection and cause resorption, also known as a loss of jawbone density.

There are several problems that can occur as a result, including a change in appearance and the inability to have dental implants. For these reasons, patients are often referred to our clinic for a grafting procedure.

Understanding the process

Before coming in for jawbone grafting in Lee's Summit, it helps to understand what the process entails. Here are some basic facts, though it is beneficial to discuss everything in person during a consultation.

#1. An examination must take place

Before the procedure, we must complete a thorough examination and take X-rays to determine a patient's jawbone density. These tests will help determine what areas of the jaw need augmentation. We can then create a surgical plan, answer questions and schedule the surgery.

#2. Surgery takes place in our clinic

We use anesthesia to ensure that patients are entirely relaxed and comfortable. Some patients also fall asleep during the procedure. Thus, we are able to cut into the gums and place natural or synthetic bone in the jaw.

In some cases, we may take bone from another area of the body like the hip. If a patient prefers, we can get bone tissue from a tissue bank or use a synthetic material. We can discuss these options during the initial consultation.

#3. The body heals itself

Once the grafting procedure is complete, the body will begin to heal and strengthen itself by depositing additional bone around the grafting site. This process allows for the jaw to become strong again – strong enough to support dental implants.

#4. Recovery

It can take a couple weeks to fully recover from a grafting procedure so be careful to eat soft foods that will not irritate the surgical site or cause pressure to be placed on the jaw. Playing sports and exercising should also be temporarily avoided. During a follow-up appointment, patients are examined and cleared for normal activity and eating.

Once cleared for the implant procedure, a patient can return to our clinic for dental implants or to the dentist office that initially referred them here for bone grafting.

Learn more

To get more details about a jawbone grafting in Lee's Summit and whether you may need one, call our office and schedule a consultation today. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.