BONE GRAFTS

INTRODUCTION TO BONE GRAFTS

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Simply Smiles Family & Implant Dentistry in Ashburn, VA, specializes in advanced dental procedures, including bone grafting. Bone grafts are utilized to restore bone structure, provide a foundation for dental implants, or enhance the structure for aesthetic or functional reasons.

Why Choose Simply Smiles?


Our team, led by Dr. Sabharwal, is committed to compassionate care and expertise in dental implants and bone grafts. We customize treatments to meet each patient’s needs, ensuring comfort and optimum results.


REQUEST A CONSULTATION FOR BONE GRAFTS
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Types of Bone Grafts

Bone grafting enhances the jaw or supports dental implants, and the team at Simply Smiles Family & Implant Dentistry in Ashburn, VA, provides various customized bone graft options tailored to each patient's needs.


Autogenous bone grafts rely on bone taken from the patient, usually from the hip, chin, or jaw. Autogenous grafts are often preferred because they are compatible and reduce the chance of infection or rejection.


Allografts are created from donor bone obtained through a bone bank. The bone is sterilized and thoroughly processed to ensure its safety. Allografts can eliminate the need for a second surgery to remove bone from a patient, reducing surgical time and discomfort. The allograft material acts as a scaffold and is gradually replaced by the patient’s bone over time.

Synthetic bone grafts are often made of biocompatible materials such as calcium phosphate or hydroxyapatite. These materials mimic natural bone properties and promote new bone formation. Synthetic grafts can be used when autogenous or donor bone grafts are not possible or preferred.


The type of bone graft you choose will depend on factors such as the degree of bone loss, your overall health, and treatment goals. Dr. Sabharwal at Simply Smiles Family & Implant Dentistry will conduct a thorough assessment and discuss the best option for your case. Our experienced team will ensure you receive the best possible care during your treatment.

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The Bone Graft Procedure


Bone grafting, also known as bone augmentation, is a procedure that restores or augments the jawbone tissue to provide a stable base for dental implants. It can also be used to improve jaw structure and function for aesthetic or functional reasons. Dr. Sabharwal and our Simply Smiles Family & Implant Dentistry team are committed to providing exceptional care during the entire bone grafting procedure.

  • Initial Consultation:

    The journey begins with an in-depth consultation with Dr. Sabharwal. During your visit, Dr. Sabharwal will review your medical and dental history, perform a thorough exam, and discuss your treatment goals. This consultation will allow us to determine whether bone grafting would be the best solution for you and customize a treatment plan tailored to your needs.


  • Preparation:

    You will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare for the surgery. Dr. Sabharwal will explain the surgery in detail and inform you what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.


  • Bone Grafting:

    Anesthesia Local anesthesia is typically used to numb a bone graft site. In some cases, you may be advised to undergo general anesthesia for your comfort.

  • Graft Placement:

    Dr. Sabharwal carefully places the graft into the targeted jawbone area. The graft acts as a matrix or scaffold that promotes new bone growth.


  • Securing Graft Material:

    After the graft is placed, the material can be secured with small screws, pins, or sutures to ensure stability and integration with the existing bones.


  • Post-op Care:

    After the procedure, we will give you detailed instructions about how to care for yourself post-operatively. This will help promote healing and reduce discomfort. This could include:


    • Pain Management: Prescription of medications to manage discomfort or pain.
    • Oral Hygiene: Guidelines for maintaining oral health, including brushing gently and using a mouthwash prescribed by your dentist.
    • Dietary Restriction: Recommendations for consuming soft foods and fluids during the initial healing stage.
    • Follow-up Visits: Schedule an appointment to monitor and evaluate your progress in recovery.

  • Healing and Bone Regeneration:

    Your body will gradually replace graft materials with new bone tissue over the next few weeks or months through a procedure called osseointegration. It is important to follow the instructions given by our team during this period to ensure a successful outcome and optimal healing.


  • Implant Placement:

     Dr. Sabharwal can proceed to place dental implants after the bone graft is fully integrated and healed. Dental implants are artificial roots that provide a stable base for crowns or bridges to restore the function and aesthetics of your smile.


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Recovery After Care


The recovery period following a bone-grafting procedure is crucial for successful healing and the graft integration into your jawbone. We prioritize your comfort and healing at Simply Smiles Family & Implant Dentistry in Ashburn, VA. We offer comprehensive instructions and support during the healing process.


1. Following your bone graft surgery, you may experience swelling, discomfort, or minor bleeding. These are common post-operative symptoms that can be alleviated with pain medication and cold compresses.


2. Good oral hygiene and care are important to promote healing and prevent infection. Our team will give you specific instructions for how to take care of your mouth in the initial phase of healing, which could include:


  • Gently Brushing: Use soft-bristled brushes to clean your teeth and the surgical area gently. To avoid disruption, do not brush directly over the graft site.
  • Rinsing: As prescribed by Dr. Sabharwal, gently rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial solution or saltwater solution. This will help reduce bacteria and keep the surgical site clean.


3. After a bone-grafting procedure, you should maintain a healthy diet to minimize discomfort and promote healing. You may have to start with soft foods, which are easy to swallow and chew. Avoid eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods as they may irritate or hinder healing.


4. To aid healing, you should refrain from engaging in strenuous activities for the first couple of days following surgery. Avoid activities that could exert pressure on your jawbone or the graft.


5. Dr. Sabharwal will schedule regular follow-up appointments to assess your healing progress. During these appointments, sutures and dressings can be removed, and additional instructions may be provided based on the progress of your recovery.


6. Long-Term Care and Monitoring: While the initial healing usually occurs in a few days, complete integration between your bone graft and natural bone can take several months. Dr. Sabharwal will continue to monitor your progress with periodic imaging and check-ups to ensure the procedure’s success.


Please contact our office right away if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort. If you notice excessive bleeding, swelling, or signs of infection, such as fever or pus, at the site of surgery, please contact us immediately. It's important to seek early attention to address potential complications and ensure a comfortable and smooth recovery.

Contact Simply Smiles


Are you ready to restore your smile using bone grafting? Call Simply Smiles Family & Implant Dentistry to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sabharwal. We are here to answer all your questions and help you at every stage of the process.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION FOR BONE GRAFTS
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