Bone Graft Gone Bad?
 

I had a bone graft last Nov. 2014 in anticipation for a dental implant. Everything seemed to be going well until recently. It appears the graft has grown up and over my gums. It's in the last molar spot on the bottom right of my mouth. It's pliable and feels kind of plastic/waxy.
My gum is sore at the site and I have to take Ibuprofen for the pain. I have no idea what is going on. I'm not sure if it's gone bad or if my body has rejected it. I'm seeing the oral surgeon this coming Monday, Jan. 12th, but if anyone could give me some idea of what's going on in my mouth, I'd greatly appreciate it. Kolleen

Hi Kolleen,

It is possible that you did not have adequate gum tissue to cover the bone graft or the gum may have receded more than anticipated causing the graft to be exposed.

It would be difficult for anyone to tell you what is happening without a clinical exam and x-rays. You should probably avoid eating in that area and rinsing about 3 times a day with warm salt water would help reduce the bacteria and inflammation of the gum.

It's good that you are having this checked by your dentist. Please give us an update on what the dentist says.

Bryanna