Bone Grafting in Whittier, CA

What Is Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that rebuilds or regenerates lost bone in the jaw to create a solid base for dental implants or to improve overall oral health. The procedure involves placing bone grafting material into areas of bone loss, allowing it to integrate and stimulate natural bone growth.

Common Reasons for Bone Grafting Include:

• Preparation for dental implants
• Bone loss due to periodontal (gum) disease
• Jawbone deterioration following tooth loss
• Correction of facial trauma or defects
• Preservation of bone after tooth extractions

If left untreated, bone loss can result in changes to facial structure and limit options for restorative dental treatments.

Types of Bone Grafting Procedures

At Whittier Surgical Arts, we offer several types of bone grafting based on your unique needs:

• Socket Preservation (Ridge Preservation): Performed immediately after tooth extraction to prevent bone loss and prepare for future implant placement.
• Ridge Augmentation: Used to increase the width and height of the jawbone to support implants and improve facial contours.
• Sinus Lift (Sinus Augmentation): A specialized grafting technique that lifts the sinus membrane and adds bone to the upper jaw to allow for implant placement in the molar area. Learn more about our sinus augmentation procedure.
• Autogenous Bone Grafting: Using your own bone from another part of the body, such as the chin or hip, for grafting purposes.
• Allografts and Xenografts: Grafts obtained from donor sources (allografts) or animal sources (xenografts), providing a safe and effective option without the need for additional surgery.

During your consultation, one of our surgeons will determine the best grafting technique for your needs.

Do I Need Bone Grafting for Dental Implants?

If you have experienced significant bone loss, a bone graft may be necessary before dental implant placement to ensure a secure and long-lasting result. Signs that you might need bone grafting include:

• A sunken or collapsed facial appearance due to bone loss
• Loose or shifting teeth due to weakened jawbone
• Difficulty wearing dentures or partials
• X-ray evidence of insufficient bone volume

A thorough evaluation, including digital imaging, will help us assess your bone health and determine if grafting is needed before implant placement.

The Bone Grafting Procedure

Our bone grafting procedures are performed with precision and care to ensure the best results. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Consultation: One of our surgeons will review your medical history, perform digital imaging, and discuss your goals to create a customized treatment plan.
2. Graft Placement: During the procedure, the grafting material is placed in the affected area. Depending on the type of graft, the procedure may be completed under local anesthesia or sedation for your comfort.
3. Healing and Integration: Over the next several months, the graft will gradually integrate with your natural bone, providing a solid foundation for dental implants.
4. Follow-Up and Implant Placement: Once the bone has fully healed, dental implants can be placed to restore your smile permanently.

Recovery and Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the success of your bone graft. Follow these tips for a smooth recovery:

• Stick to soft foods for the first few days to avoid putting pressure on the graft site.
• Use prescribed medications to manage any discomfort and prevent infection.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol, which can interfere with healing.
• Maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the surgical site.
• Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

Most patients recover comfortably within a few weeks, with full bone integration taking several months.

Why Choose Whittier Surgical Arts for Bone Grafting?

Patients in Whittier and surrounding communities trust our team for bone grafting procedures because of our:

• Expertise and Precision: Our surgeons have extensive experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery, ensuring successful outcomes.
• Advanced Technology: We utilize cutting-edge imaging and surgical techniques for optimal accuracy and efficiency.
• Comprehensive Care: We provide a full range of surgical services, from bone grafting to dental implants, all under one roof.
• Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize your comfort and customize every treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
• Flexible Financing: We offer affordable payment options to make treatment accessible for all patients.