Does everyone need a graft before implants?

No. Grafting is considered when available bone cannot adequately support the planned implant.

When can implants be placed?

Healing may take several months or longer. Your surgeon monitors the site before deciding it is ready.

YOUR CARE, EXPLAINED

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting can rebuild areas of the jaw that need additional support for implants or reconstruction.

Call today What to know

Illustrative cutaway of a tooth socket between two molars, with bone graft material gently moving into the socket.

Your existing bone

An examination and imaging show where bone support may be needed.

A closer look at your care. Individual treatment varies.

ASSESS

Understand your bone support.

REBUILD

Choose the right graft approach.

REVIEW

Check healing before moving forward.

How dental bone grafting works

Graft material creates a framework for bone formation. The recommended material may come from your own bone, processed donor tissue, an animal source, or a synthetic material. Your surgeon explains the choice for your treatment.

Choosing a graft for your treatment site

Options include socket preservation after extraction, ridge augmentation, and sinus grafting in the upper jaw. Larger defects may need more extensive reconstruction. Examination and imaging guide the approach and healing plan.

Why the jaw may need support

Bone can shrink after tooth loss or be affected by gum disease or injury. Imaging helps your surgeon assess the amount and shape of bone available before planning an implant.

Socket preservation, ridge grafting, and sinus lifts

Socket preservation places graft material in a recently extracted tooth’s socket.
Ridge augmentation rebuilds width or height where the tooth-supporting ridge has changed.
A sinus lift adds bone beneath the sinus membrane in the upper back jaw.

Healing after a bone graft

A graft is a scaffold for new bone, not an instant replacement. Your surgeon monitors healing and explains whether grafting and implant placement can happen together or should be separate stages.

HELPFUL NEXT STEPS

Graft & socket-preservation aftercare Sinus lift aftercare Dental implants

LET’S MAKE IT CLEAR

Your questions.
Thoughtful answers.

YOUR NEXT STEP

Prepare for oral surgery.

Your First Visit

Your first oral surgery consultation is time to meet your surgeon, explain your concerns, and understand your options. Bring your questions and relevant records; we’ll help you prepare for the next step.

Take a closer look

Insurance & Financing

Oral surgery costs depend on your treatment plan and insurance coverage. Our team explains your estimate, payment options, and available financing before you make decisions about care.

Take a closer look

Anesthesia Options

Oral surgery anesthesia options include local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and general anesthesia. Your health and procedure guide the plan. For appropriate patients, general anesthesia allows you to be fully asleep during surgery.

Take a closer look

LET’S TALK ABOUT YOU

One call.
A clearer next step.

You don’t need to know which treatment to ask for. Call the office closest to you, tell us what’s on your mind, and let us help you prepare for a consultation.