Bone Grafting in Wicker Park, Chicago

What Is Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that repairs or regenerates bone in areas of the jaw that have lost density or volume. This procedure is often necessary before the placement of dental implants or to restore bone loss due to tooth extraction, trauma, or gum disease.

When you lose a tooth, the underlying bone begins to shrink over time due to lack of stimulation. Bone grafting can help reverse this loss, ensuring that there’s enough bone to securely anchor dental implants or maintain the overall structure of your jaw.

Why Might You Need Bone Grafting?

Several factors can lead to bone loss in the jaw, making bone grafting a critical step in restoring your oral health. Here are common reasons why patients may require this procedure:

• Tooth Loss: When a tooth is lost and not replaced promptly, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate. This bone loss can make it difficult to place an implant or denture without first rebuilding the bone.
• Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Advanced gum disease can cause the jawbone to recede, compromising the stability of your remaining teeth.
• Trauma or Injury: Accidents or facial trauma can result in bone loss or fractures that affect your dental health and aesthetics.
• Preparation for Dental Implants: To place a dental implant, there must be sufficient bone density to support the implant. If bone loss has occurred, a graft may be necessary to build up the bone to ensure the success of the implant.

If you are considering dental implants or dealing with the effects of bone loss, contact our office for a consultation with Dr. Sanders. We will determine if you need bone grafting as part of your treatment plan.

Types of Bone Grafting Procedures

At Wicker Park Dental Studio, we offer various types of bone grafting depending on your specific needs and the extent of bone loss:

Socket Preservation

Also known as a ridge preservation, this procedure is performed immediately after a tooth extraction to prevent bone loss. By placing a graft into the socket where the tooth once was, we help preserve the bone and soft tissue, making future dental implant placement easier.

Sinus Lift

A sinus lift, or sinus augmentation, is required when the upper jawbone near the sinuses is too thin to support an implant. In this procedure, the sinus membrane is gently lifted, and bone graft material is added to the space, increasing the height and volume of the bone.

Ridge Augmentation

For patients who have lost significant bone structure due to gum disease or injury, ridge augmentation can restore the jawline to its natural shape. This procedure involves placing bone graft material along the ridge of the jaw, allowing for both aesthetic and functional improvements.

Block Bone Graft

In cases of severe bone loss, a block bone graft may be required. This involves taking a small block of bone from another area of your body or a donor source and securing it in place to rebuild the jaw. Over time, this graft will fuse with the surrounding bone, creating a strong base for future dental work.

Each type of bone graft is designed to restore lost bone and improve the success of your dental treatments, such as full and partial dentures or All-On-Four dental implants. If you're unsure which procedure is right for you, Dr. Sanders will evaluate your situation and recommend the best option for your specific case.

What to Expect During a Bone Graft Procedure

At Wicker Park Dental Studio, patient comfort is our top priority. Before your bone grafting procedure, we will discuss sedation options, such as oral sedation or IV sedation, to ensure that you feel relaxed throughout your treatment.

Here’s what to expect during a bone graft procedure:

Initial Consultation‍

During your consultation, Dr. Sanders will evaluate your oral health, take digital X-rays or 3D CT scans, and discuss your medical history. This will help determine the extent of bone loss and the type of bone grafting needed.

Preparation

On the day of your procedure, the treatment area will be numbed, and sedation will be administered if necessary. The graft material will be carefully placed in the area of bone loss.

Healing Process

After the procedure, the graft will need time to integrate with your existing bone, a process that can take several months. During this time, it’s essential to follow Dr. Sanders' post-care instructions to ensure proper healing.4.Follow-Up Care: 

Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress and determine when the bone is ready for further procedures, such as dental implants.

Recovery and Aftercare for Bone Grafting

The recovery process following a bone graft can vary depending on the extent of the procedure. Most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications and cold compresses. You’ll also be advised to avoid certain foods and follow a soft-food diet during the initial healing period.

Dr. Sanders will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to help promote proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. It’s important to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the bone graft is healing correctly.

Why Choose Wicker Park Dental Studio for Bone Grafting?

When it comes to specialized procedures like bone grafting, choosing an experienced dentist is crucial. Here’s why Wicker Park Dental Studio is the best choice for your bone grafting needs:

• Expert Care: Dr. Leslie Sanders has over 11 years of experience in performing bone grafts and other complex dental procedures.
• Advanced Technology: Our clinic is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including digital scanners and 3D CT scanning, allowing us to provide precise and effective treatment.
• Comprehensive Services: From dental implants to cosmetic dentistry, we offer a wide range of services to restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile.
• Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize your comfort and care, offering sedation options to help make your procedure as stress-free as possible.

If you're experiencing bone loss or are considering dental implants, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sanders to see how bone grafting can help restore your oral health.

FAQs About Bone Grafting

How painful is bone grafting?
Bone grafting is generally not painful. The procedure is done under anesthesia, and any post-procedure discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with medication.

How long do bone grafts last?
With proper care, bone grafts are long-lasting and provide a strong foundation for dental implants or other restorations.

What is the downside of a bone graft?
The main downside is the time required for healing, as it can take several months for the bone to integrate fully. Additionally, there is a small risk of infection or graft failure.

Does bone grow back after a bone graft?
Yes, the graft acts as a scaffold that encourages natural bone growth, gradually replacing the graft material with your bone over time.