For many patients, a dental implant will not succeed without first undergoing a bone graft procedure. With the help of a bone graft, the already high success rate of dental implants only increases. They're a godsend, and surgical processes have only improved over the last few decades.

That said, there are times the bone graft itself might show signs of failure. When that happens, an individual's dental implant and overall oral health are put at risk. While professionals like those found at the facilities of Dr. Suzanne Caudry can rectify these issues, it is important to keep a close eye on your teeth and gums to keep problems at bay. After all, no one likes to spend too much time in the dentist's chair!

For your reading pleasure, here is a brief rundown of the key bone graft failure signs. If you ever uncover any of these issues, simply schedule an appointment with Dr. Caudry and her dream team staff.

Dental Bone Graft Failure: What Happened?

Dental bone grafts have an incredibly high rate of success despite the advanced nature of such procedures. We can credit this high success rate to the tireless work of Dr. Caudry and other professionals in the field. Year after year, more and more advances are made in the name of patient comfort, accessibility, and surgical success.

That said, there are those times when a dental implant bone graft may fail. What causes this to happen? Well, there are many reasons why a successful surgery might show signs of trouble during the recovery stages.

Troubles can arise in many different forms. In some cases, not enough blood may travel to the surgical site, thereby slowing down the healing process and leading to complications. In other cases, your dental implant may jostle out of place during the healing process.

Oral infections can also lead to compromised surgical sites. These infections may stem from pre-existing health conditions or improper oral care.

Remember: Brushing and flossing too much-and too aggressively-during the recovery stages can sometimes be as detrimental as not brushing at all. It is important to take extra-special care of one's teeth and gums during this stage. Don't just brush-brush carefully.

Late and Early Implant Failure

Bone graft and dental implant failure don't just happen during the early stages of the post-surgical period. An individual's bone graft may show signs of trouble months-or even many years-in the future. This is why it is always important to pay attention to your teeth and gums. Even the most successful implant and graft procedures need to be looked after.

Signs of Bone Graft Trouble

There is no single way that tooth-and-gum troubles present themselves. Some of the most common warning signs include, but are not limited to:

Excessive teeth clenching
Decline in oral health
Fever
Gum infections
Pain in head and/or neck
Sensitive teeth
And more

When you detect signs of trouble, there is no reason to be panicked. At the facilities of Dr. Caudry, we are experts in oral care and dental implant rescue. After treating you to an in-depth consultation, we will develop a patient-centered plan and get to work. Whether you require additional bone graft procedures or a dental implant replacement will depend on the extent of your issues.

Bone Graft Failure

Many patients and inquiring minds ask us if bone grafts can fall out. This depends on the nature of the bone graft itself, but the answer is yes. Certain particulate-based bone grafts will dislodge themselves during the post-operative period, but there are ways to ensure loss is kept to a minimum.

Do not touch the surgical site with your hands or fingers during the recovery period.
Try to avoid having your tongue come in contact with the surgical site.
Avoid closely examining sutures. Too much movement of the lips and gums might compromise surgical success.
Rinse mouth gently in the days following surgery.
Avoid hot beverages.
Keep cigarette smoking to a minimum during the first few weeks of recovery, if possible.
Do not apply pressure on the implant.

The Importance of Post-Operative Care

As you can see, the success of your bone graft and dental implant placement depends as much on your oral surgeon as it does on the post-operative, at-home care. We understand how challenging the post-operative period might be for certain individuals. That is why we go to great lengths to provide patients with all the information and care they need.

To ensure success, we also offer both pain medication and antibiotics to those in need. Many of our patients experience varying levels of discomfort during the first 1-2 weeks following surgery. Take your prescribed medications as directed, and, if possible, stay ahead of the pain.

As for antibiotic prescriptions, this helps reduce the likelihood of post-operative infections. We advise individuals to take as directed until finished.

Proper Hygiene Is Key

While pre-existing health conditions might impact the success of your bone graft surgery, there are always things you can do to help yourself heal. After completing the surgery, we will be sure to provide you with ample reading material on proper oral care. To maintain optimal oral health, we also recommend regular appointments with a local dentist.

Learn More About Bone Grafts Today

Are you still in the post-operative recovery period of a bone graft procedure and are unsure how to properly care for your teeth and gums? Do you find yourself experiencing a little more discomfort than what is normal?

No matter the questions or the concerns, we want you to contact us. Dr. Caudry is one of the GTA's most celebrated periodontists and is always eager to educate the people in her community. With decades of unparalleled experience, our team is here for you.

Call (416) 928-3444 or browse our website for more information on Dr. Caudry's facilities.