Bone Grafting
 If you’ve experienced bone loss in your jaw due to missing teeth, trauma, or periodontal disease, bone grafting may be the key to restoring your oral health and preparing for future dental procedures. At Summit Dental Group, with locations in Fort Wayne and Huntington, Indiana, we offer advanced dental bone grafting to rebuild lost bone and create a strong foundation for implants or other restorations.
What Is Dental Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that restores volume and density to areas of the jaw where bone has deteriorated. Grafting material—either synthetic or taken from a donor source—is placed into the area needing regeneration. Over time, your body integrates the graft and begins to grow new bone tissue.
This treatment is often essential for patients preparing for dental implants, as implants need sufficient bone structure to anchor securely.
Why Bone Loss Happens
Jawbone loss occurs for several reasons, and if not addressed, it can impact your ability to receive certain dental treatments and affect your overall oral health.
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Tooth Loss - Without stimulation from tooth roots, the bone begins to resorb over time.
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Periodontal Disease
- Advanced gum disease can break down the bone supporting your teeth.
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Infection or Trauma - Injuries or infections in the mouth can damage jawbone structure.
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Long-Term Denture Use
- Removable dentures do not stimulate the jawbone, leading to gradual bone loss.
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Developmental or Congenital Conditions - In rare cases, genetic factors may cause inadequate bone formation. |
Bone grafting reverses these effects and supports long-term oral health and aesthetics.
Types of Bone Grafting Procedures
At Summit Dental Group, we offer several types of bone grafting to meet the specific needs of each patient. The right approach depends on the location and severity of the bone loss.
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Socket Preservation
- Performed immediately after a tooth extraction to preserve the ridge for future implants.
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Ridge Augmentation - Rebuilds the natural contour of the jaw for improved function and esthetics.
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Sinus Lift - Increases bone height in the upper back jaw to support implants by lifting the sinus membrane.
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Block Grafting - Uses a solid piece of bone (typically from the patient) to repair larger defects.
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Minor Grafts for Gum Recession or Trauma - Supports soft tissue health and prepares the site for future restoration. |
Each procedure is carefully planned using digital imaging and 3D scans to ensure optimal outcomes and patient safety.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Bone grafting is typically an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia, often with the option of sedation for added comfort.
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Your dentist evaluates the site using digital scans and 3D imaging.
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A small incision is made, and grafting material is placed into the targeted area.
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The site is closed and allowed to heal over several months as your body regenerates bone.
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Follow-up appointments monitor healing and readiness for additional procedures like implants. |
Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the graft, but most patients resume normal activities within a few days.
Why Choose Summit Dental Group for Bone Grafting?
Our experienced team provides safe, effective bone grafting with personalized care and attention. With three convenient Indiana locations, we make it easy to restore your oral health close to home.
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Advanced Diagnostics
- Digital X-rays and 3D CBCT scans allow for accurate assessment and planning.
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Customized Treatment - We match the grafting technique to your specific needs and treatment goals.
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Implant Expertise
- We often perform bone grafting in preparation for successful dental implant placement.
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Comfort-Focused Care - Sedation options and thorough aftercare instructions for a smooth experience.
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Trusted by Indiana Patients - Serving Fort Wayne and Huntington with advanced surgical solutions. |
We’re committed to rebuilding your foundation for a healthier, stronger smile.
FAQs
Is bone grafting painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort, similar to that of a tooth extraction. We use local anesthesia and offer sedation to ensure comfort during the procedure. Any post-operative soreness is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does it take for a bone graft to heal?
Healing can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months, depending on the type and size of the graft. During this time, your body replaces the graft with natural bone tissue.
Can I get a dental implant right after a bone graft?
In some cases, implants can be placed at the same time as the graft. However, most patients need to wait a few months for the area to heal and generate new bone before receiving an implant.
Is bone grafting covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan and whether the procedure is medically necessary. Our team will help you review your benefits and provide a clear explanation of any costs involved. |
