Is a bone graft a major dental surgery? And other common questions about grafting

Dental Bone Graft Near Me Darien IL Area

If you’ve been told you need a dental bone graft, it might initially sound intimidating. At Acura Dental Implants & Periodontics in Darien, Illinois, Dr. Amer Atassi and his friendly team are here to make sure you understand every step of the process. We’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions we hear about dental bone grafting at our clinic to help you educate yourself about this procedure that might be in the near future!

What is a dental bone graft, and why do I need one?

Our team best describes a dental bone graft as a procedure where we add bone material to areas of your jaw that may be too thin or weak to support a dental implant. It is a great way to strengthen the foundation of your smile before adding a new upgrade. This is critical if your jawbone has lost density due to gum disease, tooth loss, or aging.

Will the bone used in the graft come from me?

Not always! There are several sources for bone graft materials. Sometimes, it’s donated human or animal bone, and other times, it can be synthetic. Every option is safe, reliable, and carefully chosen to suit your needs. Dr. Atassi takes time to discuss the best choice for you and make sure you’re comfortable with it.

Is a dental bone graft painful?

Not really. Many patients will also ask if a bone graft is considered major surgery. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you will not feel a thing during the process. Afterwards, you might notice some minor swelling or discomfort, but nothing that over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs cannot handle.

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How long does it take to heal?

Bone graft healing takes patience, as the bone needs time to integrate with your jaw. In most cases, such as dental implants, you require three to six months before you’re ready for the next step. Dr. Atassi will keep a close eye on your progress to make sure everything is on track.

What can I eat after the procedure?

Yes, but stick to smoothies, yogurt, soups, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs for the first few days. Avoid anything crunchy, chewy, or spicy to give your mouth time to heal.

What’s the next step after the bone graft?

Once your jawbone has healed, you can proceed with your dental implant! This is the exciting step where we restore your smile to its full function and beauty. Your implant will be customized just for you, so it looks and feels like a natural tooth.

How can I learn more about dental bone graft surgery?

At Acura Dental Implants & Periodontics of Darien, IL, Dr. Amer Atassi is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile. Whether it’s a bone graft, dental implant, or simply advice to ease your mind, we’re here to guide you every step of the way! Do not hesitate to contact us by calling (630) 581-0000 and requesting a visit to 8342 Lemont Road.

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Dr. Amer Atassi

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Dr. Amer Atassi is a respected expert in periodontics and dental implantology with over 28 years of experience in the industry. He earned his dental degree from Tufts University and completed his specialty training at Louisiana State University. With master’s degrees in Oral Biology and Adult Education, he excels in clinical practice and education.

As an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois Chicago, Dr. Atassi actively contributes to dental research and teaching. The recipient of many awards, including the Wilderman Award for Periodontal Excellence in 2001, he is a published author and a sought-after speaker at international conferences.