A bone graft is a procedure that replaces missing or damaged bone so that one or more teeth can be securely anchored in the mouth. After a tooth is extracted, the bone surrounding the root deteriorates. The jawbone can shrink over time if nothing is put in its place. This can lead to an unattractive smile with gaps in between your teeth.
During a bone graft procedure at Carlston Dental Group in Los Angeles, CA, the damaged and deteriorating bone is either removed or added in small amounts to the jaw to support and strengthen the surrounding teeth and tissue. The goal is for the newly grafted bone tissue to grow with the existing bone and restore it to its correct size. Once the graft has healed, it is strong enough to support a crown, bridge, or other tooth replacement option.
Autogenous grafts use the patient’s bone from another part of their body, such as their chin or hip, to replace the missing bone. This is usually the best option as it is the closest match in texture and color to natural bone. However, this may be limited if the patient does not have enough of their bone to use.
Allografts use bone taken from other humans’ bodies, usually cadavers. These bones are sterilized before being transplanted into the patient’s body. While this is a good option for many patients, there can sometimes be complications, including rejection by the immune system.
Xenogenic grafts use synthetic materials to replace some of the surrounding bone with a material like a hydroxyapatite sponge. This is often done when patients do not have enough natural bone in their jaw to support an implant properly.
First, the damaged tooth will be reshaped for graft material preparation. The grafting material is then placed into the tooth’s socket and stabilized with sutures or screws while the area heals.
Once healing is complete, your dentist in West Los Angeles, CA, will attach an abutment to the implant post that protrudes through the gums. The abutment is the portion of the dental implant that will hold the crown.
Once all of this has been done, you must return to the office for a custom dental crown. Your new crown will be made of solid porcelain material and match your natural teeth in color and shape.
For patients in Los Angeles, CA, especially those who have experienced tooth loss for several months or years, bone grafting is essential to ensure the long-term success of dental implants. Without adequate bone density, the implant post cannot fuse properly with the jawbone, which may result in implant failure. Bone grafting rebuilds this lost bone and creates a stable, healthy foundation. At Carlston Dental Group, serving West Los Angeles, CA, and West LA, our expert dental team evaluates each patient’s bone structure using digital imaging before determining the ideal type of graft. This personalized approach helps reduce complications and optimize healing outcomes.
In addition to implant preparation, bone grafting is crucial for maintaining facial aesthetics and function. As the jawbone resorbs, it can lead to sunken cheeks or premature aging in facial appearance. With a bone graft, we restore the natural contours of your face while simultaneously preparing the mouth for future restorations like crowns or bridges. Whether you're from West LA or the greater Los Angeles, CA area, investing in a bone graft now could mean preventing more complicated procedures down the road. Our dentist in Los Angeles, CA, ensures you're fully informed and supported every step of the way, from consultation to post-surgical care. Contact us to learn more.
Healing after a bone graft procedure typically takes several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the type of graft used. During this time, it’s important to avoid putting pressure on the grafted area and to follow all care instructions provided by your dentist in West LA. Patients are advised to maintain excellent oral hygiene and avoid smoking, which can hinder the healing process. At Carlston Dental Group, we provide detailed aftercare guidelines, regular check-ins, and ongoing support throughout your recovery journey.
We also use advanced technology to monitor the integration of the grafted bone with your natural jawbone. Our team serves patients across Los Angeles, CA, and West LA, ensuring convenience and consistent, quality care. Once healing is complete, patients are ready to receive dental implants that feel just like their natural teeth—secure, functional, and beautiful. If you've been told you're not a candidate for dental implants due to bone loss, a consultation with us might reveal that a bone graft can change your outcome entirely.
Bone grafting in West LA is a vital and transformative procedure that restores the foundation of your smile. Whether you’ve suffered from tooth loss, jawbone deterioration, or trauma, bone grafts offer a reliable path to regaining oral health and preparing for long-lasting dental restorations. At Carlston Dental Group in Los Angeles, CA, we specialize in personalized bone grafting solutions that support both functional and aesthetic outcomes for patients in West Los Angeles, CA, and West LA.
Contact us today at (310) 838-0844 or visit us at 2472 Overland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90064, to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
2472 Overland Ave,
Los Angeles, CA, CA, 90064
MON9:00 am - 6:00 pm
TUE7:00 am - 4:00 pm
WED9:00 am - 6:00 pm
THU - FRI7:00 am - 4:00 pm
SAT - SUNClosed