Bone grafting is perhaps one of the lesser-known oral surgery procedures in Salt Lake City, but it is a very predicable and common procedure and and has been used since the 1970s. Oral surgeons can perform several different types of bone grafts, and the specific one you need will depend on your medical and oral health history and the condition for which you require treatment. The bones in your jaw help support your teeth and keep them strong and healthy, and bone grafting can help replace lost bone and supporting tissue damaged by gum disease (periodontitis).
How to Prepare
Preparing for bone grafting in Ogden requires that you meet with an oral surgeon and have some scaling and root planing performed. Since gum disease is the cause for bone loss, it’s also important that you take care of your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing regularly before the procedure.
Bone Grafting Procedure
Most people will either have a local numbing agent or full anesthesia for bone grafting in Salt Lake City. The oral surgeon will separate the gums from your teeth to view the roots and bone, then clean and repair any damage to the bone with graft material. The final step is to cover it with a barrier to prevent infection. Most people can have bone grafts using their own bone, cadaver bone, cow bone, or synthetic materials, but in many cases the Utah oral surgeon will try to use your own bone first.
After the Procedure
Follow the instructions of your oral surgeon in Ogden after the procedure for brushing, flossing, and rinsing your mouth to prevent bacteria growth. Take pain medication as needed for the first few days to help reduce discomfort. The physical barrier will help with healing over the next few days, and over the course of several months (usually about 6 to 9 months) your body will fill the surgical area with new bone and soft tissue growth, providing a strong foundation for your teeth. All surgeries carry a risk of infection and bleeding after the procedure. If you notice redness, swelling, tenderness, fever, nausea, or extreme discomfort in the area of the surgery, call our offices right away.
Discuss Bone Grafting With Our Surgeons
If you think you might need a bone graft, contact our offices to schedule a free consultation today. Our Ogden oral surgeons can answer all your questions about the procedure and help you understand the importance of this surgery in conjunction with other restorative treatment.