Alveolar bone graft

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An alveolar bone graft operation is done to close an alveolar cleft (gap in the bone of the upper jaw). Children who had a cleft lip and palate may have an alveolar cleft.


Key points

  • An alveolar bone graft will fix the cleft in your child’s upper jaw.
  • Your child may need orthodontic treatment in preparation for the alveolar bone graft operation.
  • Your child may need teeth removed six to eight weeks before the alveolar bone graft operation.
  • For bilateral alveolar clefts, a splint will be made before the operation that will be wired to the teeth during and after the operation to protect the area.
Last updated: May 12th 2021