Bone Grafts

A dental bone graft rebuilds lost jawbone by placing grafting material in the affected area that encourages the body to generate new, healthy bone. It's most commonly used to prepare the jaw for dental implants when bone loss has left it too weak to support them. Over time, the body replaces the grafting material with its own bone, restoring density and strength to the jaw.

Bone grafting is necessary when the jaw has lost enough density that dental implants can't be placed successfully. Tooth loss, advanced gum disease, and long-term denture wear are among the most common causes of that bone loss. A graft rebuilds the jaw to the point where it can reliably support an implant, giving you a viable path toward restoring your smile with a long-lasting solution.

Jawbone loss most commonly develops after tooth loss, since the bone surrounding the tooth root no longer receives the stimulation it needs to stay healthy and dense. Advanced periodontal disease is another leading cause, as the infection breaks down the supporting bone and tissue around the teeth. Injury, chronic infection, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to reduced bone density over time.

A bone graft places material into an area of the jaw where bone has been lost, providing a framework the body uses to generate new bone tissue. The grafting material, which can come from the patient, a donor source, or a synthetic option, is gradually replaced by the body's own bone over several months. The result is a denser, stronger jaw capable of supporting dental implants.

Bone grafting is performed with local anesthesia, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. Sedation is also available for those who'd like a deeper level of relaxation throughout the appointment. Some soreness, swelling, and tenderness in the days following the procedure are a normal part of healing. Your periodontist will provide aftercare instructions to help you manage discomfort during recovery.

Initial recovery from a bone graft typically takes one to two weeks, with some swelling and soreness expected during that time. Full integration of the graft with the existing jawbone takes several months, as the body gradually builds new bone tissue. Your periodontist will monitor your healing at follow-up visits and confirm when your jaw is ready for the next phase of treatment.

Most people wait four to six months after a bone graft before implant placement can begin, though the timeline varies depending on the size of the graft and individual healing rates. Your periodontist will use imaging to confirm the graft has fully integrated and that your jaw has the density needed to support an implant before moving forward with the next step.

Several types of grafting material may be used depending on your situation. Autografts use bone taken from another area of your own body. Allografts use donor bone sourced from a tissue bank. Xenografts use bone derived from an animal source, typically bovine. Synthetic options are also available. Your periodontist will recommend the most appropriate type based on your specific needs and the extent of your bone loss.