What can i expect with a dental bone reconstruction? i will be going in for some dental implants soon, but there is not enough bone for them, so first i will need bone reconstruction. i've read that artifical bone substitutes are used that new bone then s

There : There are many bone graft materials available. The results of the bone grafting seems to be more reliant on the procedure performed and the technique then on the grafting material. The long term results will be dependent on how much bone your body produces in the grafted area.

I : I think it is important for you to trust the dentist who is doing the bone graft to make the choice of the type of material. There are many biologic and technical reasons for the choice of material. I am sure the surgeon has considered all possibilities and has chosen what he/she thinks is the right one for you. It is sometimes problematic when a patient challenges their dentist's choices. Not to say that you shouldn't be involved, but your confidence in your doctor should outweigh the need for you to know exactly what and how he/she is doing. He/she should be able to answer all of your questions to your satisfaction, and that coupled with your confidence in their abilities should lead you down a road to a successful outcome.

First : First of all i would like to congratulate you on your decision to have implants and restore your oral condition with the best available technology. All artificial bone available today in the market is acceptable, and they are all good, every professional has his priorities and preferences for the different brands and specifications. Trust the doctor that will perform the surgery. I'm sure you are in good hands. Good luck!

Do not worry: Todays material for bone grafting are very reliable, do not worry, the success rate is very high, just follow the instruction of your dentist.

Bone augmentation: And regeneration techniques are routine these days and very predictable. It sound far scarier than it is. You need a good bony platform to ensure the success of the implants. Hope this helps and thanks for the question.

Some pain/swelling: You can expect some pain and swelling. I spoke to a patient that i treated yesterday. She said she was sore and a little puffy. I hope this helps.

Don't worry: This is a common problem it should be a painless procedure. If it is just for a limited area your post op should be minimal but if you need a ridge rebuilt that can be more complicated. These procedures work very well and the implant placement can begin in 2-3 months depending upon the type of bone being placed.

Depends: Depends on the size of the defect and whether the bone will come from you or from a bottle. The bigger the defect then the bone will come from another part of your jaw which means a second surgical site. Smaller defects then you can rebuild with bone from a bottle.

Sore and tender: The amount of bone augmentation for implants can greatly vary from a fill -in of a socket with particulate bone to a large solid cadaver, animal or autogenic piece of bone from your body. Synthetics too! all act as temporary resorbable scaffolding for your blood cells that will differentiate into your new bone. The size of the surgical site and healing speed dictate recovery. Usually not bad.