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​Bone Grafts
Restore the strength and structure of your smile with a bone graft—a procedure that can help rebuild lost or weakened jawbone. If tooth loss or gum disease has caused bone deterioration, Dr. Reyes, a board-certified periodontist, offers expert care to regenerate bone and create a solid foundation for implants or natural teeth.
​Rebuild and Strengthen the Jawbone
Bone grafts are a surgical procedure used to rebuild and strengthen jawbone that has deteriorated due to tooth loss, gum disease, or trauma. When the bone weakens, it can no longer support teeth or dental implants. A bone graft involves placing natural or synthetic bone material in the affected area to stimulate new bone growth and restore stability. Under the expert care of Dr. Reyes, this procedure ensures a strong foundation for future dental work.
​Possible Reasons for Bone Grafts
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Tooth loss leading to jawbone shrinkage and instability
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Gum disease causing bone deterioration around teeth
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Trauma or injury weakening the jawbone structure
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Insufficient bone density to support dental implants
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Bone defects present from birth or due to medical conditions
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Tooth extractions leaving inadequate bone for future restoration
During your bone graft procedure, Dr. Reyes will first numb the area with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. If needed, sedation options may also be available to help you relax. He will then make a small incision in your gum tissue to access the weakened or deteriorated bone. The area will be thoroughly cleaned and prepared, removing any damaged tissue or infection to create the ideal environment for bone regeneration.
Next, Dr. Reyes will carefully place the bone graft material, which may be synthetic, donor, or your own bone, into the affected area. This material acts as a scaffold, encouraging your body to generate new, healthy bone over time. Once secured, the site is covered with a protective membrane, and the gum tissue is sutured closed. Over the following months, your bone will integrate and strengthen, preparing you for implants or other restorative treatments.
​The Bone Graft Process
​Bone Graft FAQs
How Long Does It Take for a Bone Graft to Heal?
Healing time varies depending on the size of the graft and your body’s natural ability to regenerate bone. On average, the new bone takes three to six months to integrate fully. Dr. Reyes will monitor your progress and determine when your jaw is ready for the next step.
Is a Bone Graft Painful?
Dr. Reyes ensures your comfort with local anesthesia during the procedure. You may experience mild soreness afterward, similar to a tooth extraction, but any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication.
Where Does the Bone Graft Material Come From?
Bone grafts can be autogenous (your own bone), allografts (donor bone), xenografts (animal-derived bone), or synthetic substitutes. Dr. Reyes will discuss the best option based on your needs and treatment plan during your consultation.
Can I Get a Dental Implant Immediately After a Bone Graft?
In some cases, a bone graft and implant can be placed simultaneously, but most patients need to wait for the bone to heal and strengthen first. Dr. Reyes will assess your bone density and let you know the best timeline for implant placement.
What Should I Avoid After a Bone Graft?
To promote healing, avoid smoking, excessive alcohol, hard or sticky foods, and vigorous rinsing or spitting for the first few days. Dr. Reyes will provide personalized aftercare instructions after your procedure to ensure the best outcome.
​Why You Should Choose Us
Advanced Dentistry and Periodontics of Antioch is a dental practice that puts your health and comfort first. Led by Dr. Simkins and Dr. Reyes, we provide one-on-one, personalized care using the latest technology and advanced techniques for cosmetic dental care. Every treatment plan is tailored to your needs—never rushed, never cookie-cutter. Schedule a consultation today, and let Dr. Simkins and Dr. Reyes help you achieve the smile you deserve.