Bone Grafting
Building a Strong Foundation for Dental Implants
Dental implants offer an attractive and effective solution for tooth loss. To successfully place a dental implant, you need healthy bone in the area where the implant will be positioned. The bone anchors the implant and ensures your tooth replacement is durable and long-lasting.
When teeth are removed or lost without replacement, a process called resorption (bone loss) can occur. If we find that you’ve experienced bone loss in the area where you need implants, we may recommend a bone graft. A bone graft enhances the healthy bone in your jaw and promotes regeneration, strengthening your jawbone’s overall structure.
Once healed, you’ll be ready for dental implant surgery, which addresses tooth loss and prevents further deterioration of your jawbone structure.
Your Trusted Dental Professional
Meet the Doctor
Dr. Vaibhav Bajaj
Dr. Vaibhav Bajaj is a dedicated and compassionate dentist who earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Tuskegee University followed by earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery from Howard University College of Dentistry. With a deep-rooted passion for dentistry, Dr. Bajaj has established himself as a trusted healthcare professional known for his empathetic and creative commitment to delivering exceptional oral care to his patients.
Dr. Bajaj journey into the world of dentistry was driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. His empathetic nature and fun personality allow him to connect with his patients on a personal level ensuring that they feel comfortable and at ease during their dental visits. He takes the time to listen to their concerns and is always willing to go the extra mile to provide the highest level of care.
Known to some as “The Dancing Dentist”, Dr. Bajaj prides himself in incorporating his love for dance, music and creativity into his practice. As a result, he attracts and connects with all ages. On any given day the music in his office ranges from the world of Disney to special requests by his patients. His social media presence has afforded him the opportunity to speak at various events and share his love for dentistry that he developed back in the 3rd grade. Dr. Bajaj has traveled the world and provided care to those who are less fortunate on numerous occasions.
Opening The Steele Creek Smiles is a dream come true that he shares with his wife Amber and daughter Alani. They are dedicated to serving the needs of the community. If you are looking for exceptional care rooted from the heart, visit The Steele Creek Smiles where we are Creating Smiles one Patient at a Time.
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Bone Grafting FAQs
Will I be in pain after Bone Graft for Dental Implant procedure?
Yes, you will experience some level of pain afterwards from the procedure that will last for a day or two afterwards. If you had bone removed from another site in your mouth, it will hurt also. Ice and pain medication will minimize your discomfort, which is comparable to other oral procedures.
Are there Bone Grafting for Dental Implants Complications?
As with any surgical procedure, you are at risk for complications. While some bleeding is normal, you may experience excessive blood loss at the site. Other risks include site infection and rejection of the graft material, both of which are serious and require medical attention.
How is the bone formed in the Bone Grafting process?
Depending upon your surgeon’s choice, some type of bone material is placed in the area where the bone is weak. This may be your bone or that of a donor. It will fuse to the existing bone and form new cells, eventually filling in the previous area with a solid bone structure. This new bone can support the implant and surrounding soft tissue as though it were natural.
Bone cement instead of bone grafts for loose dental implants?
It is possible for bone cement to be used to help secure loose dental implants if the patient is not a good candidate for a bone graft, or cannot afford the procedure. However, the dentist will need to determine if the area will benefit from this alternative, which is more likely to become looser than when a bone graft is used.
How long is the healing process for a Bone Grafting Procedure?
The healing time for bone grafts is very variable and depends on the type of injury or bone defect being treated, condition of the bone surrounding the graft, and the size of the bone graft.
How long is the healing process for a Sinus Lift/Graft Procedure?
Although it generally takes several months for the treated area to become fully integrated, patients can usually resume their normal activities within two to three days following the procedure.
No bed rest is required, but most doctors recommend patients limit their activity in the days immediately after surgery. During this time, patients should avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, and drinking carbonated beverages for at least three days. Additionally, nose blowing should be absolutely avoided for at least four weeks.
Is the Sinus Lift/Graft procedure painful?
While some discomfort is normal in the first days, most patients’ discomfort is easily managed with prescription or over-the-counter medication.
Am I a candidate for Sinus Lift/Graft ?
If you have significant bone or tooth loss and want to have a dental implant procedure, a sinus lift/graft may be an option.
Accepted Insurance Plans at Steele Creek Smiles
*We also accept and file insurances apart of the Zelis, Connection, and Dentemax Dental Networks. For a comprehensive list of providers, please click here.
If you do not see your in-network dental provider listed above, please let us know. We will do our best to work with any insurance providers our patients carry.