Healthy gums need healthy bone. When gum disease damages the bone that supports your teeth, it can lead to loose teeth, infections, and even tooth loss. Bone grafting is a periodontal therapy that helps rebuild lost bone, protect your smile, and support long-term oral health. Fedida Dental Spa provides advanced bone grafting procedures to help patients in East Elmhurst restore both function and confidence.
Why Bone Grafts Are Sometimes Needed
Periodontal (gum) disease is one of the most common causes of bone loss in the mouth. As bacteria collect below the gumline, they can destroy the bone that holds teeth in place. Over time, this damage may cause teeth to shift, feel loose, or fall out.
Bone grafts are used to replace or regenerate bone that has been lost due to gum disease, infection, or trauma. They are often recommended when:
- Gum disease has caused bone deterioration
- Teeth need extra support to remain stable
- A patient is planning for dental implants
- A sinus lift procedure is needed before implant placement
Rebuilding bone not only helps save natural teeth but also creates a strong foundation for other treatments, such as dental implants or advanced periodontal therapies like LANAP® laser treatment.
How Bone Grafting Works
Bone grafting is a procedure that encourages your body to regrow bone where it has been lost. The dentist carefully places grafting material into areas with bone damage. Over time, your body uses this material as a framework to grow new, healthy bone.
The graft material may come from natural sources or safe, biocompatible materials designed to support bone regeneration. The choice depends on your specific needs and treatment goals.
In many cases, bone grafting is combined with other periodontal treatments. For example, laser therapy such as LANAP can be used to remove infection and promote healing, while bone grafts rebuild lost structure. This combination allows for more predictable and long-lasting results.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before treatment, the dentist performs a detailed exam, including imaging, to evaluate bone levels and gum health. Your comfort is a priority, and local anesthesia is used during the procedure.
During bone grafting, infected tissue is cleaned from the area. The graft material is then placed where bone loss has occurred. In some cases, a protective membrane is added to help guide healing. The gums are gently repositioned to allow the area to heal naturally.
Recovery times vary, but most patients return to normal activities within a day or two. As healing continues over the next several months, new bone gradually forms and strengthens the area.
Bone Grafts and Other Periodontal Treatments
Bone grafting often works hand-in-hand with other dental services. Patients undergoing LANAP laser treatment for gum disease may benefit from bone grafts to restore lost support. Those planning dental implants may require grafting to ensure there is enough bone for long-term implant success.
Bone grafts are also related to procedures such as sinus lifts, which add bone to the upper jaw near the sinuses when implants are planned. In some cases, gum grafts may be recommended alongside bone grafting to improve both health and appearance.
By combining these advanced therapies, our office helps patients achieve healthier gums and stronger smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bone Grafts
Is bone grafting painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia is used during the procedure, and any post-treatment soreness is usually mild and temporary.
How long does it take for a bone graft to heal?
Initial healing takes a few weeks, but full bone regeneration can take several months. This timeline allows the bone to become strong and stable.
Will I need a bone graft before dental implants?
Not always, but if there is not enough bone to support an implant, a graft may be necessary to ensure long-term success.
Can bone grafts save my natural teeth?
Yes. Bone grafting can help stabilize teeth affected by gum disease and prevent further bone loss.
Are bone grafts safe?
Bone grafting is a well-established and safe procedure when performed by an experienced periodontal provider like Dr. Fedida.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have been told you have bone loss or advanced gum disease, bone grafting may be an important step in protecting your smile. Dr. Haim Fedida offers personalized periodontal care using modern techniques, including laser therapy and regenerative procedures.
Contact our East Elmhurst office today to schedule a consultation and learn how bone grafts can support your long-term oral health.