Bone Grafting
Treatments designed to rebuild bone and support future dental implants.
Why bone grafting might be recommended
Bone grafting may be recommended when there is not enough bone to support a planned dental implant, when bone has been lost after tooth removal, or when rebuilding the shape of the jaw may help with future treatment.
Bone will naturally shrink after a tooth is removed. Grafting may help preserve the shape and volume of the area for future treatment.
When the implant site does not have enough height or width for predictable implant placement, due to prior bone loss from tooth removal, gum disease, or other factors.
In some cases, grafting can be performed at the same time as implant surgery to support the surrounding bone.
The amount and shape of available bone vary from patient to patient, and treatment is based on your specific anatomy and treatment goals.
What to expect before implant surgery.
Your consultation allows us to evaluate the area, review your health and imaging, coordinate with your restorative dentist when needed, and develop a treatment plan based on your anatomy and restorative goals.
Review your health
We review your medical history, medications, allergies, and other factors that may affect surgery or healing.
Evaluate the implant site
Dr. Siew evaluates the surrounding teeth, gums, and bone to determine whether grafting is needed for your long-term health.
Review the anatomy
Appropriate imaging helps assess available bone and nearby structures and supports three-dimensional implant planning.
Coordinate the treatment plan
We discuss the type of grafting, your specific bone condition, anesthesia options, expected healing, and important risks.
Anesthesia options for your comfort and safety.
The appropriate option depends on your procedure, health history, preferences, and other clinical considerations.
Local anesthesia
Local anesthetic numbs the surgical area while you remain awake during the procedure.
IV sedation
IV sedation can help reduce anxiety and awareness and improve comfort during your procedure. The appropriate level of sedation is individualized for each patient.
General anesthesia
General anesthesia may be considered for selected patients and procedures when clinically appropriate.
How bone grafting fits into your treatment plan.
Bone grafting may be performed as part of tooth removal, before implant placement, or at the same time as implant surgery. The exact sequence depends on your anatomy and treatment goals.
Prepare the site
The area is evaluated and prepared so the graft can be placed in a healthy and stable environment.
Place the graft
Bone graft material is placed to preserve or rebuild the area where additional bone is needed. A membrane may be used to protect the graft and support healing.
Allow time to heal
The graft is given time to heal and become incorporated with the surrounding bone, which will take several months. The exact healing time depends on the type of graft, your anatomy, and your individual healing.
Plan future treatment
Once healing is adequate, implant placement or other planned treatment can move forward when appropriate.
What to expect after bone grafting.
Recovery varies depending on the type and extent of grafting performed. We will provide postoperative instructions specific to your procedure and treatment plan.
Swelling & soreness
Swelling and discomfort are common after bone grafting and generally improve as healing progresses.
Diet
Choose foods that are soft to eat and follow any instructions about avoiding pressure or chewing near the surgical site. Avoid chewing on the same side as the graft until cleared by your surgeon.
Protecting the graft
Avoid disturbing the surgical area while it heals. Follow your postoperative instructions for brushing and caring for the site.
Healing & follow-up
Follow-up allows us to monitor healing and determine when the area is ready for the next stage of treatment.
Common questions about bone grafting.
What type of bone graft material is used, and which is best?
Several types of bone graft material are available. The best choice depends on the area being treated, the amount of bone needed, and your individual treatment plan. Common options include allograft, xenograft, and autograft.
What is an allograft?
An allograft is donated human bone obtained from a tissue donor rather than from your own body. Donated tissue is carefully screened, tested, and processed before it is provided for clinical use. Human donor tissue may come from AATB-accredited tissue establishments.
What is a xenograft?
A xenograft is graft material derived from an animal source, most commonly bovine (cow) bone. It is specially processed for medical use and can provide a framework that supports new bone formation.
What is an autograft?
An autograft uses your own bone, collected from another area of your body. Because it is your own tissue, it can be useful for certain types of bone reconstruction. Whether an autograft is needed depends on the size and complexity of the area being treated.
Is donated bone safe?
Human donor bone is obtained through regulated tissue-banking processes that include donor screening, testing, and processing before clinical use. We select graft materials from reputable sources and can discuss the specific material recommended for your procedure.
How long does a bone graft take to heal?
Healing time varies depending on the type and size of the graft, the area being treated, your health, and whether other procedures were performed. Your follow-up visits help determine when the site is ready for the next stage of treatment.
Can a bone graft and dental implant be done at the same time?
Sometimes. In selected situations, bone grafting can be performed at the same time as implant placement. In other cases, the graft is allowed to heal before the implant is placed at a later visit.
Does everyone getting a dental implant need a bone graft?
No. Some patients have enough bone for implant placement without grafting. Others may benefit from bone grafting to preserve or rebuild the area before or during implant surgery. Our goal is the long-term health of your implant and surrounding bone, and we will recommend grafting when it is appropriate for your anatomy and treatment plan.
What happens if I do not get a bone graft after a tooth is removed?
Bone can shrink after a tooth is removed. In some situations, grafting may help preserve the shape and volume of the area for future implant or restorative treatment. Whether grafting is recommended depends on your anatomy and treatment goals.
What is PRF?
Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is prepared from a small sample of your own blood. The blood is processed to concentrate platelets and other components involved in healing, creating a fibrin material that can be used during certain surgical procedures. PRF may be used alone or together with bone grafting depending on the treatment being performed.
Understanding the risks of bone grafting.
Bone grafting is a common surgical procedure, but all surgery involves potential risks. These vary depending on the type and extent of grafting, the area being treated, your health history, and your individual anatomy.
Potential complications can include pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, delayed healing, loss or exposure of graft material, or an inadequate amount of new bone formation. Depending on the location of the graft, nearby teeth, nerves, or the maxillary sinus may also be relevant.
Your individual anatomy, treatment options, and risks will be reviewed with you before surgery so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Have questions about bone grafting?
Contact our team to request an appointment and discuss whether an evaluation may be appropriate for you.