Replacing your tooth is a scary concept, even more so if you have to undergo a dental bone graft before the final surgery. However, inserting an implant is not as terrifying as the idea of grafting your jawbone. That is why one of the most asked questions we get is, “Are you put to sleep for a dental bone graft?”
The everlasting anxiety surrounding the procedure can make it so much worse. But don’t worry. In this blog, we have discussed everything you need to know before going through a dental bone grafting procedure and the anesthesia options required for it.
What is a Dental Bone Graft?
A dental bone graft is an intrusive dental procedure where tissue is extracted from a bone anywhere in your body before being deposited in your jawbone. This helps to promote organic bone growth in your jaw, or rather, the area suffering from low bone density. The purpose of a dental bone graft is to add volume to your bone, enhancing growth and stability.
However, if you do not have healthy bones, the oral surgeon might resort to taking out bone graft tissue from a tissue bank to ensure healthy growth.
What Happens During a Dental Bone Graft
The first thing you need to keep in mind is that there are numerous types of bone grafts. Depending on the location of the tooth, the specific area in your jaw might get affected, leading to a slightly separate grafting procedure. But despite the type of bone graft, the overall treatment remains the same. Take a look below to see all the different steps included in a dental bone grafting process.
- In-depth Evaluation & Checkup
This is the initial step where your oral surgeon will evaluate your teeth, jaw, and gums. You might be required to sit through CT scans or dental X-rays to get a deeper look. - Preparing for the Surgery
If your oral surgeon decides you need bone grafting surgery, you will be put on a strict diet and told to avoid certain medications to prepare the jawbone. - The Grafting Surgery
If your bone tissue was extracted beforehand or came from a third-party donor, the surgery will go by much faster. During the procedure, the surgeon will insert the bone tissue somewhere inside your jawbone, molding it with the rest of the bone. - Healing Process
The recovery period of a bone graft can last you a couple of weeks. However, as long as you are diligent and follow your dentist’s orders, you can heal much faster. - Aftercare
In order to make sure your jawbone is developing the way it should, the oral surgeon will mark your progress and call you in for regular appointments. Only when it has fully formed will your surgeon give you the green light to get a dental implant, if needed.
Are You Put to Sleep for a Dental Bone Graft?
Technically, you can get a dental bone graft without being put to sleep, although it mainly depends on the placement of the bone graft. A simple dose of local anesthesia is all you need to comfortably get through the procedure. However, if you are someone who has dental anxiety or is afraid of the surgery, let your dentist know beforehand. They might refer you to IV sedation or try another form of anesthesia to calm your nerves before the surgery.
Long Story Short
When it comes to dental bone grafting, the procedure does not require you to be put to sleep. It can be completed with just local anesthesia numbing your mouth. Nevertheless, in case of further queries and concerns, feel free to reach out to Cypress Periodontics and Dental Implants at (281) 677-022. You can also visit us for an in-person evaluation at 27150 US-290 Ste 400, Cypress, TX 77433, United States.