What Is a Bone Graft?
Bone loss in the mouth can result from tooth extractions, gum disease, trauma, or long-term tooth absence, all of which can compromise the shape, strength, and stability of your jawbone. A bone graft is a surgical procedure that restores lost or weakened bone in the jaw, providing a solid foundation for future treatments like implants or dentures. At Bird and Johnson Oral Surgery, Dr. Jay Johnson perform oral bone grafting to help patients rebuild essential jawbone tissue in preparation for restorative procedures. Using biocompatible grafting material (either from your own body or a donor source), Dr. Johnson encourages natural bone regeneration at the site of deterioration. If you're missing a tooth or planning to receive a dental implant, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our oral surgery office in Cocoa, FL to learn how bone grafting can provide structure and support for your long-term oral health.
How Does an Oral Bone Graft Work?
The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation using advanced diagnostic tools such as CT scans or panoramic x-rays, allowing us to assess the extent of bone loss and determine exactly where and how the graft should be placed. Bone grafting surgery is performed in our Cocoa, FL office under local anesthesia or dental sedation, depending on your comfort level and the complexity of the graft. Once the area is fully numb, Dr. Johnson will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the jawbone and carefully place the bone grafting material. There are several types of bone grafts he might use, including an autograft (taken from your own body), allograft (taken from a human donor), xenograft (taken from an animal source), or alloplast (made from synthetic materials). Once the graft is placed, he will close the site with sutures. As your jaw heals over the next few months, the grafted material will integrate with the natural bone, rebuilding strength and density.
What Are the Benefits of Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is often the first step in preparing for tooth replacement, especially for patients dealing with significant bone loss. With precise planning and compassionate care from our team at Bird and Johnson Oral Surgery, this procedure can make a critical difference in the success of your implant and the health of your smile, delivering benefits that include:
- Restores jawbone strength so you can safely get a dental implant
- Rebuilds lost bone to support your long-term dental health
- Helps maintain your natural facial shape and avoid sunken features
- Improves stability for future restorations like bridges or dentures
- Protects your jaw from further bone loss after tooth removal or injury
- Encourages your body's natural bone growth for a healthier foundation
Bone Grafting Reviews
Dr. Johnson is an outstanding, experienced oral surgeon. Two weeks ago I had two extractions with bone grafts in preparation for implants. I felt no pain or discomfort during and after the procedure. Everything went perfectly! The front office staff and surgical assistant are great. I highly recommend Dr. Johnson.
I had a sinus lift and implant put in yesterday. I followed directions and other than taking some Advil and Tylenol only to stay ahead of any pain, it has been far better than I anticipated. I have not had to take any prescription paid medicine. I would highly recommend Dr. Johnson to do any oral surgery you need.
This morning I had a tooth removed and grafting by Dr Johnson. He was on time , and painless. Both Dr Johnson and staff were exceptional. They were professional, efficient, and caring and kind. Excellent service. Thank you so much for a painless experience!
Dr. Johnson has performed tooth extractions, bone grafts, and implants for me over the past fifteen to twenty years. Despite my chronic neurological condition, he has conducted these oral surgeries under local anesthesia, causing minimal discomfort both during these procedures and during recovery. I trust that Dr. Johnson will handle each task carefully, always considering my comfort. Additionally, he is a personable man who approaches patients with kindness. His staff is friendly and knowledgeable as well. I recommend this team without hesitation.
I’m a 71 year-old male retired, aerospace engineer, and have dealt with, and developed an ability to recognize intelligent people in my 40 years of professional experience. In my opinion, Dr. Johnson is one of the most professional and astute maxillofacial oral surgeons you could ever engage with. He has 30+ years of knowledge doing sinus lift / bone graft surgeries in areas where you have lost a tooth or multiple teeth. I broke my number 14 molar on a hard kernel of popcorn. It was split through the floor and could not be repaired. So it had to be extracted. Dr. Johnson did the extraction and at that time also placed bone grafting material into the socket. It took well and after five months of healing a second set of x-rays showed that there was still not enough bone material to accept a titanium implant. So a surgery was scheduled to place a bone graft above that location, which required also lifting my right side sinus. I’m writing this 30 hours after the surgery. Apparently the pain level is supposed to increase with the peak estimated to occur at 48 to 72 hours. So far I have only Very-Low levels of pain. I have no swelling or bruising. I do have some stitch, free ends, sort of dangling, but they cause no irritation or nuisance. I have been able to eat soft foods- eggs, applesauce, yogurt, iced coffee, pudding and homemade ice cream, etc. I’m also drinking plenty of water, diluted Gatorade, diluted pomegranate juice. I feel great. I’m careful to keep my head elevated and not do any bending over to cause blood rush to my head. I’ve had virtually no bleeding. Sleeping on my back with two pillows under my head to keep it elevated. It’s going so well that I’m planning to go for an easy 2 mile walk this evening, just 36 hours after the surgery. I cannot recommend Dr. Johnson and his support staff highly enough. Knowledge matters. Experience matters. He is an expert in the strictest definition of the word. I’m scheduled to-return next Monday for a stitch pulling session. Looking forward to it. In a few months after I’m totally healed, a new crown will be attached to the titanium stud, completing the tooth replacement. If you’ve lost a tooth, I recommend you see Dr. Johnson.
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Am I A Candidate For Bone Grafting?
Ideal candidates for bone grafting include individuals who have experienced bone loss in their jaw for various reasons. This may include patients who have had a tooth extracted and need to build up the bone to support a future dental implant. People with advanced gum disease, which can erode the jawbone, are also often candidates. Additionally, individuals who have experienced facial trauma or injury leading to bone damage may require a bone graft to restore their jaw. A thorough consultation with Dr. Johnson will determine if bone grafting is the right solution for your specific oral health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dental sedation used for a bone grafting procedure?
Yes, dental sedation can be used during bone grafting if needed. Many patients do well with local anesthesia alone, but sedation options are available for those who feel anxious or are undergoing a more extensive procedure. Your comfort level and medical history will help determine the best approach.
How long will a bone graft surgery take?
Bone grafting procedures typically take 45 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on the size of the graft and the surgical site. Smaller grafts placed at the time of an extraction are often quicker, while more involved grafting procedures may take longer.
Where does the bone come from that’s used during bone grafting oral surgery?
Bone used in grafting can come from several sources. It may be your own bone, processed donor bone, or a biocompatible synthetic material. All grafting materials used in oral surgery are thoroughly tested and designed to safely integrate with your natural bone over time.
Strengthen and Preserve Your Jaw
A strong, healthy jawbone is essential for successful dental implants and a confident, lasting smile. At Bird and Johnson Oral Surgery in Cocoa, FL, we offer personalized bone grafting treatments tailored to your individual anatomy and goals. Whether you're replacing a lost tooth or planning for future restoration, we are here to restore your foundation and help you move forward with comfort and clarity. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jay Johnson and take the first step toward rebuilding your smile.