Bone Grafting

Bone Grafting: Rebuilding Your Smile’s Foundation

Bone loss after losing a tooth is a natural process. Without the stimulation from biting and chewing, the jawbone begins to deteriorate. Within just a year after tooth loss, up to a quarter of the bone width can be lost. This rapid bone loss is why it’s important to have a plan for tooth replacement as soon as possible.

What Is Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that restores lost bone tissue, creating a solid foundation for dental implants. It replaces missing bone using materials that stimulate your body to regenerate new bone. This essential step allows more patients to qualify for dental implants, giving them a stable, natural-looking smile.

Procedure Overview

The process of bone grafting starts with a small incision in the gums to expose the bone. Grafting material—whether from your own body, a donor, or a synthetic source—is placed where bone is needed. The graft encourages your natural bone to grow back into that space, forming a sturdy base for future dental implants.

Discomfort is usually minimal and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. We monitor your healing and may wait several months before placing an implant to ensure the bone is fully regenerated.