A bone graft is a procedure to replace missing bone or provide scaffolding for your body to regrow bone. Bone grafting may be part of a treatment plan that includes tooth extractions, dental implants, or reconstructive surgery of the mouth, jaw, or face. Grafting procedures improve the bone quantity and quality for successful treatment, function, and aesthetics. If missing teeth, disease, trauma, or genetics have caused your bone loss, Dr. Ryan Hambleton can help. He is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon who provides safe, effective bone grafting procedures for patients in Littleton, Colorado.

What to Expect During a Bone Graft

Before recommending a bone graft, Dr. Hambleton will take a 3-D cone-beam CT scan to measure your bone mass and volume. Whether you need grafting for dental implants, facial trauma, or a jaw defect, Dr. Hambleton will thoroughly explain your treatment options. He will also explain how sedation can help make your experience more comfortable. A local anesthetic will numb the surgical area, and IV sedation will keep you relaxed and comfortable.

Tooth Removal and Dental Implant Sites

Bone grafting can repair bone loss due to missing teeth, tooth removal, or trauma. Dr. Hambleton prepares dental implant sites and builds up the bone structure with grafting. A tissue bank or your bone can supply the graft material. After making a small incision through your gums, Dr. Hambleton will attach the graft. He may use special membranes beneath your gums to protect the graft and encourage bone regeneration.

Major Grafts for The Face, Mouth, Or Jaw

Dr. Hambleton performs major surgeries in a hospital using general anesthesia to prevent you from feeling anxious or any discomfort. He will harvest bone from the jawbone, hip, or lower leg and transfer it to the affected areas. He uses various techniques to keep grafting material in place before closing the surgical site. Dr. Hambleton will discuss the length of your hospital stay based on the procedure and your needs.

Comfort and Recovery After Your Treatment

Your comfort and recovery are Dr. Hambleton’s priority. Anesthesia will keep you comfortable for a few hours after surgery. Dr. Hambleton’s team will monitor you in a recovery room after surgery. When you are awake and alert, we will review your post-operative instructions. You can promote a smooth recovery at home with these steps:

  • Follow instructions for taking over-the-counter or prescription medication to remain comfortable.
  • Take antibiotics that Dr. Hambleton may prescribe to prevent or treat an infection. 
  • If you smoke, avoid it to promote healing.
  • Adjust your diet and activities according to the post-operative instructions for your procedure.
  • Although the surgical site may heal in two to three weeks, a bone graft takes four to eight months to heal and grow. Dr. Hambleton will explain your healing time based on the procedure.
  • Keep your follow-up appointments to monitor the progress of your bone graft.
  • Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Hambleton with your questions or concerns anytime during your recovery.

The Results

Bone grafts improve function and appearance. The procedure reverses the effects of bone loss or damage, improves function, and promotes bone growth. The new bone can provide a solid foundation for dental implants, help restore your appearance after facial trauma, or improve function when you speak, chew, or smile.