Xenograft

A bone graft is a procedure completed when a patient lacks the necessary bone structure to place an implant due to bone loss. Bone loss can occur due to extreme cases of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease attacks the gums and creates pockets. Once the pocket is deep, the secure fit that holds your teeth in place is gone and it can cause you to lose a tooth. This means it may be more difficult for an implant to be placed in the mouth.

“A Xenograft is the implantation of bovine (cow) bone,” says Dr. Denine Rice.  It is a xenograft because one graft of a species is being taken and implanted into a different species. A xenograft is perfectly safe and has been used successfully for many years.  Ample bone can be obtained and no secondary donor site is necessary.  The use of this type of graft has increased over the years due to the amount of tissue that is available compared to live tissue from others.  Anyone that is completing this type of procedure should be aware of the risk factors that are involved.  However, when done correctly by Dr. Rice, the risks decrease.  

Once the graft has been placed the healing time is usually four to six weeks. One of Inland Empire’s top dentists, Dr. Denine Rice will walk you through the procedure before it has been completed. She and her team can also discuss with you any questions regarding what to do after your surgery.