Oral Medicine
Overview
Bone grafting and gum grafting procedures are used to restore lost bone or soft tissue in the mouth, most commonly to support dental implants, improve oral health, or enhance long-term function and stability. These procedures play an important role in preparing the mouth for future restorative treatment and maintaining healthy oral structures.
At our practice, grafting procedures are carefully planned and performed using predictable techniques to support optimal healing and long-term outcomes.
When Is Bone or Gum Grafting Recommended?
Grafting procedures may be recommended in cases such as:
Insufficient bone volume for dental implant placement
Bone loss due to gum disease, infection, or trauma
Recession of the gums exposing tooth roots
Preparation for prosthetic or orthodontic treatment
Improving stability around existing teeth or implants
A thorough clinical and radiographic assessment is performed to determine the most appropriate grafting approach.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting involves placing graft material into areas of bone deficiency to encourage new bone formation. This is commonly performed:
At the time of tooth extraction
Prior to or in conjunction with dental implant placement
To restore bone lost from infection or trauma
Depending on the clinical situation, graft material may be sourced from the patient, a donor source, or a synthetic alternative. Over time, the graft integrates with the surrounding bone to provide a stable foundation for future treatment.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting is used to treat gum recession and protect exposed tooth roots. Benefits of gum grafting include:
Reducing tooth sensitivity
Protecting teeth from further gum and bone loss
Improving long-term periodontal health
Enhancing aesthetics in visible areas
The procedure involves repositioning or adding soft tissue to reinforce areas where the gums have receded.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery following bone or gum grafting is generally well tolerated.
Patients may be advised to:
Avoid disturbing the graft site during early healing
Follow specific oral hygiene and dietary instructions
Take prescribed medications as directed
Attend review appointments to monitor healing
Our team provides detailed post-operative guidance to support a smooth recovery.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, potential risks may include:
Swelling or discomfort
Infection
Graft failure or delayed healing
These risks are minimised through careful case selection, surgical technique, and patient compliance with aftercare instructions.
Referral and Ongoing Care
We accept referrals for both bone and gum grafting procedures, including cases requiring staged treatment prior to dental implant placement. Referring clinicians are kept informed throughout the assessment and treatment process, with clear communication and timely reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does grafted bone take to heal?
Initial healing occurs within weeks, however full integration may take several months depending on the procedure and future treatment plan.
Will I need to delay implant placement?
In some cases, implants can be placed at the same time as grafting. In others, a healing period is required before proceeding.