Bone Grafting Procedures: How They Work

Bone grafting is a dental procedure that rebuilds or strengthens your jawbone so it can support a dental implant securely. The treatment involves adding bone material—either from your body or a synthetic source—to areas where bone density is low. Once the graft heals, your jawbone becomes strong enough to hold an implant permanently in place.

Why Bone Grafting Is Important for Dental Implants

Not everyone naturally has enough bone to support an implant. Bone loss may occur due to:

  • Tooth loss or extractions
  • Gum disease (periodontitis)
  • Injury or trauma to the jaw
  • Long-term denture wear

When bone structure is insufficient, implants can’t be placed securely. Bone grafting solves this issue by regenerating bone tissue, creating a strong foundation for dental implants that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

How Bone Grafting Works: Step-by-Step

Here’s what happens during a typical bone grafting procedure at Dental Implants Brookline:

1. Consultation and Imaging

Your dentist will take 3D scans and digital X-rays to assess bone density and determine the graft size and location.

2. Choosing the Graft Material

There are several types of grafts, including:

  • Autograft: Bone from your own body (often the chin or hip)
  • Allograft: Donor bone from a tissue bank
  • Xenograft: Bone from animal sources (commonly bovine)
  • Alloplast: Synthetic materials that promote new bone growth

3. Surgical Placement

After local anesthesia, your dentist makes a small incision in the gum and places the bone graft material. It’s then covered with a membrane to protect it and encourage integration.

4. Healing and Bone Regeneration

Over the next several months, the graft fuses with your natural bone through a process called osseointegration—the same process that helps dental implants bond to the jaw.

5. Implant Placement

Once healing is complete (typically 3–6 months), your dentist can safely place the dental implant, ensuring long-term stability and function.

What to Expect After Bone Grafting

It’s normal to experience mild swelling or tenderness for a few days. Here’s how to promote smooth recovery:

  • Apply ice packs for swelling reduction
  • Take prescribed or OTC pain medication
  • Avoid chewing on the grafted side
  • Follow all post-operative instructions carefully

Within weeks, the discomfort subsides, and healing continues beneath the surface.

Benefits of Bone Grafting Before Dental Implants

  • Stronger Implant Support: Ensures implants last decades
  • Restored Facial Structure: Prevents the sunken appearance caused by bone loss
  • Improved Oral Health: Supports adjacent teeth and jaw alignment
  • Broader Treatment Options: Even patients with significant bone loss can become candidates for dental implants

Advanced Technology at Dental Implants Brookline

Our office uses cone-beam CT imaging and biocompatible materials to ensure precision, safety, and optimal healing. Every graft is customized to the patient’s anatomy for predictable, natural results.

FAQ: Bone Grafting for Dental Implants

1. Do I always need a bone graft before dental implants?

Not always. If your jawbone is strong enough, grafting may not be necessary. A 3D scan will determine your bone density.

2. How long does bone graft healing take?

Typically 3 to 6 months, depending on the size of the graft and your body’s healing response.

3. Is bone grafting painful?

No, the procedure is done under local anesthesia, and most patients report only mild discomfort afterward.

4. Can bone grafting fail?

Rarely. When performed by experienced professionals using advanced materials, the success rate is over 95%.

5. How much does a dental bone graft cost?

Costs vary by material type and complexity. Our team provides transparent, customized quotes during your consultation.

Conclusion

Bone grafting is a safe, proven solution that helps patients with bone loss become ideal candidates for dental implants. By rebuilding bone structure, it restores both function and aesthetics—ensuring your implants last a lifetime.

At Dental Implants Brookline, we specialize in advanced grafting and implant techniques to deliver confident, lasting smiles.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

Contact Dental Implants Brookline today to schedule your consultation and discover if bone grafting is right for you.
Call us at 1-(617) 277-6969 or book an appointment online to get started.