Bone Grafting for Dental Implants
Building a strong foundation is essential for long-term implant success. Our bone grafting procedures restore jawbone volume, allowing patients who were previously told “no” to become excellent implant candidates.
Understanding Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that adds bone tissue to your jaw, creating the foundation needed for successful dental implants. Think of it as preparing the soil before planting—strong roots need solid ground.
Rebuilds jawbone height and width lost due to extraction, disease, or trauma
Creates adequate bone density for secure implant placement and long-term stability
Maintains facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance caused by bone loss
Why Does Bone Loss Occur?
Understanding the causes of jawbone deterioration helps explain why bone grafting may be necessary for your implant treatment.
Without tooth roots to stimulate the jawbone, bone resorption begins immediately. Up to 25% of bone width can be lost within the first year after extraction.
Gum disease destroys the bone supporting teeth. Advanced periodontitis can cause significant bone loss that requires grafting before implant placement.
Traditional dentures rest on the gums, not the bone. Over time, this causes bone resorption, leading to loose-fitting dentures and facial changes.
Facial injuries can damage jawbone structure, requiring bone grafting to restore adequate volume for implants or facial aesthetics.
Some patients have naturally thin or insufficient bone structure that requires augmentation before implant placement.
Chronic dental infections can erode surrounding bone tissue, creating defects that need grafting for proper healing.
Types of Bone Grafting Procedures
The type of grafting procedure depends on your specific situation, the location in your mouth, and the amount of bone regeneration needed.
Performed immediately after tooth extraction to prevent bone loss and maintain ridge shape for future implant placement.
Restores the natural contour of your jawbone when significant bone loss has occurred, creating adequate width and height for implants.
Adds bone to the upper jaw in the premolar and molar areas by lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material beneath it.
A specialized procedure that moves the inferior alveolar nerve to allow implant placement in the lower jaw when bone height is limited.
Types of Graft Materials
Dr. Olaes will recommend the best graft material based on your specific needs, the size of the defect, and your overall health.
Harvested from your chin, jaw, hip, or tibia
Advantages:
- Highest success rate
- Contains living cells
- Best integration potential
- No rejection risk
Requires secondary surgical site
Processed human donor bone from tissue banks
Advantages:
- No secondary surgical site
- Readily available
- Excellent safety record
- Well-documented outcomes
Processed to remove cells; acts as scaffold
Bovine (cow) or porcine (pig) bone, processed for safety
Advantages:
- Abundant supply
- Excellent scaffold properties
- Well-researched
- Cost-effective
Acts as scaffold for your bone to grow into
Lab-created materials like calcium phosphate or bioactive glass
Advantages:
- No disease transmission risk
- Consistent quality
- Various formulations available
- Good for smaller defects
May have slower integration in some cases
Recovery Timeline
Understanding what to expect during recovery helps ensure optimal healing. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days.
Swelling peaks around day 2-3. Use ice packs 20 minutes on/off. Take prescribed medications as directed. Rest and avoid strenuous activity.
Swelling begins to subside. Switch to warm compresses. Continue soft food diet. Gentle rinsing with prescribed mouthwash.
Gum tissue heals over graft site. Gradually return to normal diet. Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Avoid chewing directly on graft site.
New bone forms and integrates with graft material. Follow-up X-rays to monitor progress. Implant placement may be scheduled once healing is confirmed.
Post-Op Care Available
Detailed bone grafting aftercare instructions are available in our Patient Information section.
View Post-Op InstructionsInvestment & Financing
Building a strong foundation for your implants is an investment in your long-term oral health. We'll help you find a solution that fits your budget.
Every case is unique. During your consultation, we'll evaluate your specific needs and provide a detailed treatment plan with cost estimates tailored to your situation.
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of bone grafting when medically necessary. We'll verify your benefits and help maximize your coverage.
- CareCredit (0% interest options)
- In-house payment plans
- HSA/FSA eligible
Ready to Build Your Foundation?
If you've been told you don't have enough bone for implants, bone grafting may be the solution. Schedule a consultation to learn if you're a candidate.
Why Choose Dr. Olaes for Bone Grafting?
Years Experience
Extensive experience in implant dentistry and bone regeneration procedures
Advanced Training
Continuing education in the latest bone grafting techniques and materials
Patient-Centered Care
Personalized treatment plans with comfort and success as top priorities
Start Your Journey to Dental Implants
Don't let bone loss prevent you from getting the smile you deserve. Contact Carmel Mountain Dentist today to learn how bone grafting can help.
12335 World Trade Dr. Ste 1B, San Diego, CA 92128