Risks

What are some risks of bone grafting ?

As with all surgery, there are some risks and complications associated with bone grafting surgery.

1. Infection:
As the graft is placed in the mouth (contaminated site), there is a risk of infection. It is important to continue on antibiotics after surgery, and to use a mouthrinse to prevent infection.

2. Wound breakdown:
The gums need to stretched over the bone graft and closed with sutures. Sometimes, due to excessive tension or trauma from chewing, or a denture, there is breakdown of the gum flap which may require further management or risk loss of the bone graft due to infection.

3. Shrinkage of the bone graft:
The bone graft needs to be stimulated by placement of an implant within 6 to12 months after grafting. Otherwise, the graft may resorb (shrink) if implant placement is delayed for too long. Therefore, it is advisable not to delay placement of the implant after bone grafting for too long.