Gum Disease and Bone Grafting
Severe gum disease or periodontitis is quite common in adults. The disease can result in various symptoms including damage and loss to the bone which securely holds the teeth in the mouth. Dental professionals or a periodontist may encourage patients to receive a bone graft in order to restore the damaged bone. A bone graft helps restore damaged or lost bone due to gum disease. It also aids in promoting the growth of new bone as well.
Over time gum disease can cause serious issues including receding gums, bone loss, and the loss of teeth in severe cases. Periodontitis is the most severe form of gum disease and is caused by a serious bacterial infection which impacts the gums and supporting bone tissue. When patients fail to practice good oral hygiene, it creates an environment which allows harmful bacteria to flourish. The result is redness, inflammation, and sensitivity in the gums. Gingivitis is the early form of gum disease which often causes swelling or bleeding of the gums. Symptoms associated with gum disease are outlined below:
- Halitosis or bad breath
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
- Teeth which are loose or wiggly
- Pain and sensitivity
- Chewing discomfort
The harmful bacteria associated with gum disease is able to reach under the gums and infect the tissue below the teeth. Over time, the infection can cause a breakdown of the supporting bone and tissue. This can quickly progress and result in tooth loss because there is no support. Gum disease is actually the most common cause for loss of teeth in adult patients. The good news is that treatments such as surgery and bone grafts are available to stop the progression of periodontitis and restore a patient’s oral health. These treatments can help restore the damage caused by periodontal disease and prevent further issues.
Bone Grafting
A bone graft is a common treatment used to restore lost or damaged bone in the jaw. The periodontist or gum specialist cuts into the gums to remove any infected gum tissue. The bone graft material is then placed in the treatment area. This aids in prompting the body to create new bone tissue, which will eventually replace the graft. This helps repair a damaged jawbone due to gum disease and aids in preserving the natural teeth.
Various materials can be used with bone grafting. The dental professional can remove bone from another part of the patient's body and transplant it to the jawbone. Other materials which can be used for a graft include harvested human donor bone, animal bone, or synthetic material. It takes several months for the bone graft to heal. Once the moth is fully recovered, patients are ready for a dental implant. The body actually creates new bone tissue which replaces the grafted material. In cases of minor bone grafting, it is possible to perform the grafting procedure and the dental implant placement at the same time.
Tissue Regeneration
Dental professionals may opt to use mesh filters or membranes along with the bone graft which help stimulate new bone and tissue growth. During the recovery process, the bones and gums will heal and grow back. The bone grafting procedure has made incredible advancements and improvements in recent years. Bone grafting is an excellent treatment for restoring lost bone and gum tissue caused by gum disease.
Patients who are interested in bone grafting and dental implants should contact the office today. The team can determine if the patient is a good candidate for the procedure and discuss any questions related to the recovery.
