Bone Graft / Ridge Augmentation in Los Angeles
The success of dental implant surgery is determined largely by the amount and quality of the bone where the implant is placed. Patients may have inadequate bone and tissue support in the upper and/or lower jaw due to ridge malformation as a result of periodontitis (a gum infection), aggressive tooth removal, or osteoid osteoma (a bone tumor). Over time, areas of the jawbone that are missing teeth can atrophy, providing poor support for dental implants.
Patients in these situations previously were not good candidates for dental implants. With advancements in technology, regenerative surgery with a bone graft can be performed to recreate natural bone and soft supporting tissues. Gum and jaw contour reconstruction requires a skilled, experienced surgeon like Dr. Salamati in Beverly Hills.
What Is the Bone Graft / Ridge Augmentation Procedure?
Soft Tissue Ridge Augmentations
During this surgical procedure, an incision is made, and the gums are lifted. A soft tissue graft is harvested—either from a suitable site in your mouth and/or a soft tissue substitute—and then inserted into the area. The gum tissue is replaced over the soft tissue graft and sutured into place.
Hard Tissue Ridge Augmentations
Hard tissue ridge augmentations are performed to provide adequate bone dimensions prior to dental implant surgery. After creating an incision, the gums are lifted, and the graft is placed to augment the atrophied bony ridge.
Major and Minor Dental Bone Grafting Procedures
Major bone grafts are typically performed to repair jaw deformities that may occur as a result of traumatic injury, tumor surgery, or congenital defects. Sinus bone grafts can also be performed to replace bone in the posterior upper jaw. Bone grafting gives us a chance to restore functionality and appearance and build a strong foundation for implants.
The bone can be taken from a tissue bank or the patient’s jaw, hip, or tibia (below the knee). Some bone harvesting procedures are performed in an operating room and require a hospital stay. Special membranes that dissolve under the gum may be utilized to protect the transplanted bone and encourage bone regeneration.
How Long Is the Dental Bone Graft Recovery?
It can take three to 12 months for the bone graft to fuse to the natural bone and be ready for the final implant. In some cases, the implant can be placed at the same time as the hard tissue ridge augmentation. Bone graft healing takes time to recover, and the best approach is to remain patient and attend your follow-up appointments as scheduled. Dr. Salamati will discuss the details of your recovery with you during your consultation.
Is a Bone Graft Painful?
You will receive anesthesia during your procedure, so the process is painless. We are dedicated to providing dramatic results with minimal pain. Oral medication can be taken to alleviate any discomfort after your procedure.
What Happens Afterward?
Once your mouth has completely healed, the implants are permanently attached to your jaw. Any missing teeth can be replaced, and you will be left with a beautiful, fully functioning smile. Every patient will experience a different outcome, so please discuss your concerns with Dr. Salamati during your consultation.
