![](https://www.perioperio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/bone-grafting-model.jpg)
Why is bone grafting necessary?
Each tooth is surrounded by a special type of bone which exists solely to hold your teeth in place. When a tooth is lost, this bone will gradually disappear since it no longer has a function. Over time, the deterioration could become so severe that dental implants are no longer a good tooth replacement option. In these cases, a bone graft is necessary to provide a solid foundation that will hold the dental implants in place.
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Patients who have experienced bone loss will most likely need to visit the NOVA Perio Specialists for a dental bone graft in Sterling, Leesburg, & Aldie, VA before having dental implants placed. There are three main types of bone grafts available:
- Autogenous grafts
- Allografts
- Xenografts
![patient-smiling-after-dental implants procedure](https://www.perioperio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/patient-smiling-after-dental-implants-procedure.jpg)
What is bone grafting?
Bone grafting is the process in which a bone sample is taken from a donor source and grafted onto the area where bone loss has occurred. There are three types of bone grafts available:
Autogenous grafts
These take bone from one area of the body, usually the chin, and graft it on the area where loss has occurred.
Allografts
An allograft takes bone from a donor such as a cadaver or bone bank. The benefit here is that a second surgical site does not need to be made.
Xenografts
This type of procedure uses bone from a nonhuman source such as cattle. This is beneficial because large amounts of bone can easily be attained without a second surgical site.
Bone Loss Occurs Immediately After Tooth Loss
Bone loss in the jaw bone is common when one or more teeth have been lost due to injury, decay, or trauma. Without the tooth in place to stimulate the jaw bone, the bone around the missing tooth will begin to deteriorate.
![dental bone graft graphic](https://www.perioperio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/dental-bone-graft-graphic.png)
How does a bone graft work?
Dr. Kharmouche will numb the area with a local anesthesia to reduce any pain or discomfort. Then, an incision will be made in the gum tissue to allow access to the area being augmented. If an autogenous graft is being performed, a second incision will be made inside of the mouth below the lower front teeth to expose the chin bone. Part of the bone will then be removed along with the bone marrow before closing the incision with sutures. Finally, the “new” bone material is positioned and held in place with titanium screws.
A bone graft usually takes about six to nine months to heal. Afterward, you and one of our doctors can begin planning your dental implants procedure. To learn more about a dental bone graft in Sterling, Leesburg, & Aldie VA, contact the NOVA Perio Specialists and schedule your consultation today!