Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that rebuilds deteriorated jawbone tissue, creating a stable base for dental implants. When teeth are lost, the jawbone resorbs over time—like a muscle that atrophies from disuse—leaving insufficient bone to anchor implants. At Care Dental Implant & Cosmetic Center, Dr. Drew Phillips uses grafts sourced from your own body, donor tissue, or synthetic materials to restore bone density. Imagine biting into a crisp apple or enjoying a ribeye at your favorite steakhouse again—bone grafts make these moments possible by ensuring implants fuse securely with your jaw.
The Bone Graft Journey: From Surgery to Implant Success
The grafting process begins with a 3D CBCT scan at Care Dental, mapping your jaw’s anatomy to pinpoint areas needing reinforcement. Under local anesthesia or IV sedation, Dr. Phillips makes a small incision in the gum, places the graft material, and secures it with dissolvable membranes or screws. For autografts, he collaborates with oral surgeons to harvest bone from minimally invasive sites, prioritizing patient comfort. Post-op, a collagen membrane protects the graft as new bone cells multiply—a process called osteogenesis.
Healing requires patience: soft foods like mashed potatoes or smoothies are recommended for 2–4 weeks, while smoking and strenuous activity are avoided to prevent complications. Over-the-counter pain relievers manage discomfort, and follow-up visits track progress through digital imaging. Once the graft fuses with your jaw (typically 3–6 months), Dr. Phillips places the implant. One retired firefighter shared how guided bone regeneration restored his jaw after decades of tooth loss, letting him finally enjoy his granddaughter’s homemade caramel corn. With proper care, grafted bone becomes a permanent part of your anatomy, ensuring implants last decades.
Dr. Drew Phillips: Mastery in Complex Implant Rehabilitation
With 18+ years of experience and dual board certifications in implantology and periodontics, Dr. Drew Phillips combines surgical precision with artistic finesse. He’s performed over 2,000 successful bone grafts, earning recognition from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. His approach minimizes invasiveness—using piezoelectric tools to gently sculpt bone and PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) to accelerate healing. For anxious patients, sedation dentistry transforms the experience into a stress-free “nap,” with many recalling only vague memories of the procedure.
Dr. Phillips’ success rates exceed 98%, thanks to his meticulous planning and use of Nobel Biocare® implants, renowned for their durability. He also pioneered same-day graft-and-implant techniques for eligible patients, reducing total treatment time. A Waco business owner praised how Dr. Phillips restored her smile between investor meetings, proving advanced care doesn’t disrupt busy lives. His team coordinates with your general dentist and insurance providers, streamlining every step from financing to recovery.
Why Dr. Phillips Reigns as Texas’ Bone Graft Authority
Choosing Dr. Phillips means partnering with a surgeon who prioritizes safety and innovation. His clinic features cutting-edge tools like 3D printers for custom surgical guides and low-level laser therapy to reduce swelling. For diabetic patients or those with osteoporosis, he tailors protocols to optimize graft success, collaborating with physicians to manage systemic risks. Testimonials highlight his compassionate care—a veteran regained confidence to speak at community events after full-mouth implants supported by zygomatic grafts.
Are you ready to restore your smile with dental implants at our skilled and trusted dental practice? Don’t wait to get the smile of your dreams with us. Get in contact with our doctor, Dr. Drew Phillips, and our exceptional team at Care Dental Implant & Cosmetic Center to schedule an appointment today!