Bone Grafting
What is a bone graft and why would I need to have bone graft surgery?
Due to ageing, tooth loss, previous trauma, pathology (cysts or tumours) or as a result of congenital deformity such as cleft lip or palate, there may be insufficient bone for dental implant placement.
In such cases, bone grafting will be performed to augment the available bone quantity and quality to enable successful implant placement.
Bone grafting is an all-inclusive term which may refer to socket preservation, ridge augmentation, or sinus lifts.
Depending on the situation, bone grafting may take place at:
The time of tooth removal
Months before the placement of dental implants to allow for adequate healing and to optimise aesthetics
The same time as implant placement
Most commonly bone grafts are harvested from other areas of the patient’s body, usually within the mouth, such as at the rear of the lower jaw or the chin. In cases of severe bone loss, bone may be harvested from other sites such as the hip, lower leg (tibia) or outer skull.
Other options for bone grafting include:
Synthetic bone derived from other species
Allogenic bone which is sterilised bone sourced from a person who has donated their bone for this purpose
How do you treat these conditions?
At your initial consultation, Dr Chellappah will take a thorough history, perform a comprehensive examination and review any x-rays or CT scans which your Dentist or GP may have organised. He will advise if any further investigations are required.
Dr Chellappah will explain to you the options for surgical management of your condition and discuss the procedure and any associated risks in depth. He will also advise you of what to expect in the post-operative period.
Where will I have my bone graft surgery?
Minor bone grafting procedures, particularly those occurring at the time of tooth removal, can be performed under local anaesthetic with injections to numb the teeth, gums and nearby structures so you do not feel any discomfort.
More involved procedures are performed in hospital under general anaesthetic. You will be asleep for the duration of the procedure. You will be admitted on the day of your procedure and usually will be discharged either the same day or the next day after review by Dr Chellappah.
How long is the recovery after bone graft surgery?
After your procedure, Dr Chellappah will provide you with specific instructions regarding your post-operative care.
Any prescriptions for antibiotics, pain relief or mouthwash will also be given to you.
You will receive a follow-up phone call from Dr Chellappah or his staff the day after your surgery. If you remain in hospital, Dr Chellappah will continue to see you daily until you are discharged.
Some general considerations for the period immediately after any surgery are:
Rest at home after your surgery.
Do not drive, engage in active exercise or operate machinery until advised.
Take several days off from work, school or other duties as advised.
Do not drink any alcoholic beverages whilst you are taking pain killers or antibiotics.
Do not smoke after your surgery.
Pain may be minor in some people and greater in others. Dr Chellappah will prescribe appropriate pain relief for you.
Swelling almost always occurs after surgery and can vary from very little to severe. Most swelling takes four to five days to go down completely. Ice packs are recommended to reduce swelling and relieve pain and discomfort.
Gums may ooze blood slightly for a day after surgery. Apply pressure over the area of bleeding by biting gently but firmly on a piece of cotton gauze. The pressure helps stop bleeding and a blood clot will form.
A soft diet is suggested for one week after surgery. Dr Chellappah will provide you with a list of recommended foods.
A post-operative follow-up appointment is usually scheduled for 1 week after your procedure, unless otherwise advised.
Dr Chellappah will also provide you with an emergency contact number if you have any concerns. Do not hesitate to contact him.