.svg)
Bone & Tissue Grafting in Alexandria
Regain and fortify your oral health with bone and tissue grafting.
Regain your oral health
What is Bone & Tissue Grafting?
Bone and tissue grafting can use a variety of natural and synthetic materials to restore tissues that have been lost due to gum disease, missing teeth, and other oral and systemic health conditions.
The benefits of bone & tissue grafting
Conditions like periodontal (gum) disease and dental infections can lead to the loss of bone and soft tissue. Health issues such as diabetes and smoking can contribute to this problem as well. All of these factors can lead to further tooth loss and other health concerns. Bone and tissue grafting can help you regain your oral health by preparing you for reconstructive procedures.
- Prevent further oral health issues
- Enhance facial aesthetics
- Prepare for dental implant reconstruction
- Accellerate healing
- Reduce pain and discomfort
Comprehensive care
Types of tissue grafts
Our board-certified oral surgeons in Alexandria are experts a full range of tissue grafting techniques and procedures.
PRP & PRF
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) are two types of tissue grafting techniques that involve using a patient's own blood to stimulate the growth of new tissue. These techniques are often used to aid in the healing process and are used in conjunction with a bone grafting procedure to promote tissue regeneration. A small sample of the patient's blood is taken and processed to concentrate growth factors. This concentrated liquid is then applied directly to the affected area, where it can promote faster healing and tissue regeneration.
Sinus grafts & Sinus augmentation
Sinus grafts or sinus augmentations are a procedure that involve adding bone to the upper jaw in order to place dental implants. This technique involves making a small incision in the gums and lifting the sinus membrane to create a foundation of bone for dental implants to fuse to. Once the bone graft is in place, the incision is sutured and the patient is given time to heal.
.svg){kind=icon}
Extraction site grafting
Extraction site grafting is a technique used to promote the growth of new bone in an area where a tooth has been removed. This process involves placing the bone grafting material into the empty tooth socket at the time of extraction to support the growth of new bone over time. This technique is often used to prepare the site for a dental implant and to prevent thinning of the surrounding hard and soft tissue.
.svg){kind=icon}
Block grafting
Block grafting is a technique used to add your natural bone to specific areas of the jaw. This technique involves harvesting bone from one area of the patient's body and transplanting it to the affected site. Donor bone can be used as well in certain circumstances. The block of bone is secured in place with screws and left to heal over time. This technique is often used to prepare the affected area for dental implant placement or to reconstruct large defects in the bone caused by injury or disease.
Custom mesh plates
Custom mesh plates are used to provide additional support to the jaw following a bone graft or other oral surgery procedure. These plates are typically made from titanium and are individually designed with modern CAD/CAM technology to seamlessly fit the contours and anatomy of the specific patient.They are screwed into place to provide additional stability during the healing process.
Connective tissue grafting
Connective tissue grafting is a technique used to repair damage to the gums caused by periodontal disease or dental infections. During the procedure, a small piece of tissue is removed from the roof of the patient's mouth and transplanted to the affected area. This technique can help achieve the long term success of dental implants by providing thicker and healthier gums.
The bone grafting treatment process
There are a variety of tissue grafting options available, and the treatment process can vary from type to type. Your doctor will determine what the best option is for your needs, but here’s what you can likely expect from your procedure:
1
Diagnosis and treatment planning
The first step in the grafting process is to conduct a thorough evaluation of the your medical history, including your current condition and any pre-existing medical conditions that may impact the success of the graft. A comprehensive physical examination will be conducted, along with imaging tests such as x-rays and CBCT scans to determine the extent of the damage or deterioration of the bone or tissue. Based on the findings of the evaluation, your oral surgeon will develop a treatment plan that outlines the procedure that will be performed, the type of bone or tissue graft that will be used, and the expected outcomes.
2
The procedure
Once the treatment plan has been developed, the grafting procedure will be performed. This procedure utilizes a combination of advanced surgical techniques and materials to transplant bone or tissue from one area of the body to another, or to use donor tissue to replace damaged or deteriorated bone or tissue. The grafting material is carefully positioned and secured in place to ensure that it heals properly and integrates with the natural surrounding tissues.
3
Post-Treatment Care and Follow-up
Following the grafting procedure, patients will need to be vigilant about their post-treatment care to ensure that the graft heals properly and that the new bone or soft tissue develops as it should. This typically involves taking prescribed medications and adhering to a strict follow-up schedule to monitor progress and detect any complications or adverse effects that may arise. Your oral surgeon will provide detailed instructions on how to care for the treated area, manage any pain or discomfort, what to expect during recovery, and when to return for follow-up appointments.
Frequently asked questions
How Long Does Bone Grafting Take To Heal?
The healing process for bone grafting can vary from one person to another, largely depending on the individual's overall health, the extent of the grafting procedure, and the location of the graft. Typically, for minor bone grafts, the healing process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. However, for more extensive grafts, such as those required for a major jaw reconstruction, the healing period can extend from several months to a year.
During this period, it's crucial to follow all post-operative instructions provided by your oral surgeon to ensure optimal healing. This may include taking prescribed medications, maintaining a soft food diet, and avoiding strenuous activities. Regular follow-up appointments will also be necessary to monitor the healing progress.
What Are Some Aftercare Tips For Bone and Tissue Grafting?
Proper aftercare is key to a successful recovery after a bone and tissue grafting procedure. While you’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions from our team, here are some general tips to follow that can help ensure a smooth healing process:
Follow Medication Instructions: Your oral surgeon will likely prescribe medication to manage pain and prevent infection. Make sure to take these as directed.
Rest and Recovery: Give your body ample time to heal. Avoid strenuous activities and get plenty of rest in the first few days following the procedure.
Maintain a Soft Food Diet: To avoid disturbing the graft site, it's recommended to stick to a diet of soft foods and liquids for a few days post-surgery.
Oral Hygiene: While you should avoid brushing the surgical site initially, it's important to keep the rest of your mouth clean to prevent infection. Your oral surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to safely clean the area around the graft.
Regular Follow-ups: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so your oral surgeon can monitor your healing progress and address any potential complications early.
Remember, every patient's recovery process is unique. Always follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your oral surgeon at Alexandria Oral Surgery, Dr. Jeffrey Rothman or Dr. Vincent Nguyen. They are committed to ensuring your comfort and well-being throughout the healing process.
Is Bone and Tissue Grafting Covered By Insurance?
The coverage for bone and tissue grafting procedures can significantly vary based on your insurance provider and the specifics of your insurance plan. Some insurance companies consider bone grafting a necessary medical procedure, especially when it is required for further dental work like implants, and may offer partial or full coverage.
However, it's important to note that every insurance policy is different. It is recommended to contact your insurance provider directly to understand the extent of your coverage. At Alexandria Oral Surgery, our staff is also available to help you navigate your insurance benefits and provide a detailed estimate of any potential out-of-pocket costs.