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Montgomery County Office
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301-869-8884
903 Russell Ave. 
Suite #300 
Gaithersburg, MD 20879
Dr. Gerard Boquel, DDS
Washington, DC Office
located above the Dupont South Metro Station
202-887-5441
1350 Connecticut Ave NW  Suite #305
Washington, DC 20036
admin@dupontdds.com
Board Certified in Periodontology and Dental Implant Surgery 
Bone Graft

BONE GRAFTING

Most cases of periodontal disease are treatable using minimally invasive procedures, such as scaling and root planing or gum surgery. However, periodontal disease that has progressed can result in deteriorated, atrophied or lost bone beneath the gums. When bone is destroyed by gum disease, it can no longer adequately support the teeth, eventually leading to total tooth loss. In these cases, bone grafting, also known as regenerative surgery, may be necessary to restore healthy gums and teeth. During this procedure, a prepared graft is placed in the areas where bone should be and this encourages the body to rebuild the areas lost to periodontal disease.  

DID YOU KNOW?

That periodontal bone grafting is not just for advanced periodontal disease patients? In fact, more and more patients are undergoing bone graft procedures to gain enough bone structure to support dental implants. Bone beneath the gums naturally deteriorates following tooth loss. Bone grafting rebuilds these ridges and makes it possible for many patients to get permanent tooth prosthetics instead of dentures.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will I need periodontal bone grafting?

        The only way to know if you are a candidate for periodontal bone grafting is by scheduling a consultation with a periodontist. An exam will reveal the condition of your teeth, gums, and the supporting bone beneath. Based on that evaluation, the periodontist will make a recommendation for treatment.      
   

What should I expect during a periodontal bone graft procedure?

        If bone grafting is the right treatment for you, you'll visit your periodontist's office, where you may undergo a scaling and root planing treatment to remove disease-causing bacteria and help prevent additional complications in the future. Prior to the grafting procedure, you'll be given a local anesthetic to minimize procedural discomfort. The gums will be separated from the teeth, and a graft placed near the underlying bone. A synthetic or organic barrier will be used to ensure the gums do not grow into areas the regenerated bone will eventually occupy.     

Will I need to follow any special instructions following a bone graft procedure?

        Yes. Some patients report minor sensitivity such as sore and swollen gums following bone graft surgery.  For a short period following this surgery, you may want to eat only soft foods. Dr. Boquel advises all patients to let their particular comfort level be their guide.  You may be given pain medications or antibiotics to be taken according to written instructions. It may take up to a number of months for your body to make new bone to fuse to your graft.      

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