Is It Normal for Bone Graft Material to Fall Out After Six Months?

Q: Is It Normal for Bone Graft Material to Fall Out After Six Months?

Hello： It is advisable for you to return for a follow-up appointment as soon as possible. <br>Please do not attempt to remove anything around the implant yourself, as it could be other components, and removing them could lead to more complications. <br>If it cannot be absorbed, w

Bone meal issue

Hello Doctor, today while using dental floss, I noticed a piece of bone graft material (the lower part embedded in the tissue) came out next to my implant (which has not yet had the crown placed).
I am hesitant to remove it myself with tweezers.
I found online that bone graft material typically falls out within about a month after the grafting procedure.
I would like to ask if it is normal for bone graft material to come out after six months since my tooth extraction and bone grafting.
Does this mean that most of the bone graft material has not integrated, which could potentially affect bone growth? (Although I hope that most of it has integrated well, leaving only a small amount that couldn't be absorbed and is now coming out...) Thank you for your response, Doctor.

S, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/17

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: It is advisable for you to return for a follow-up appointment as soon as possible.
Please do not attempt to remove anything around the implant yourself, as it could be other components, and removing them could lead to more complications.
If it cannot be absorbed, we must accept that the body has its limitations.
In any case, you should promptly return to your original implant dentist for a re-evaluation!

Reply Date: 2023/11/17

More Info

It is understandable to be concerned about the situation you are experiencing with the bone graft material falling out after six months. Bone grafting is a common procedure used in dental implants to provide adequate bone support for the placement of the implant. The graft material is intended to integrate with the existing bone over time, a process known as osseointegration.
In general, it is not typical for bone graft material to fall out after six months. Most bone grafts should have integrated into the surrounding bone by this time. The fact that you are noticing bone graft material dislodging now could indicate a few potential issues.
Firstly, it is important to consider the type of bone graft material used. There are various materials available, including autografts (bone taken from the patient), allografts (donor bone), and synthetic materials. Each type has different integration timelines and success rates. If the graft material was not adequately integrated, it could lead to the material becoming loose and eventually falling out.

Secondly, the timing of the dislodgement could suggest that the graft material did not fully integrate with the surrounding bone. This could be due to several factors, including infection, insufficient blood supply to the graft site, or mechanical stress on the area. If the graft material is not absorbed properly, it may not provide the necessary support for the implant, which could compromise the overall success of the dental implant procedure.

It is also worth noting that the presence of bone graft material after six months may indicate that the body has not fully accepted or integrated the graft. This could potentially affect the bone growth and the stability of the implant. If the graft material is still present and has not integrated, it may need to be evaluated by your dentist or oral surgeon to determine the best course of action.

Given your concerns, it is crucial to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible. They can perform a clinical examination and possibly imaging studies to assess the situation. It is not advisable to attempt to remove the graft material yourself, as this could lead to further complications or infection.

In summary, while it is not typical for bone graft material to fall out after six months, it can happen under certain circumstances. It is essential to seek professional advice to evaluate the situation and determine the appropriate steps to ensure the success of your dental implant procedure. Your oral health is paramount, and addressing any concerns promptly will help ensure the best possible outcome.

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