Bone Grafting For Dental Implants: How It Works

Published:

April 29, 2025

Are you planning a dental implant but need a bone graft? This is a common operation when the jawbone is not strong enough to support an implant. In this article, we will explain how bone grafting works and why it is necessary.

What is Bone Grafting in Dentistry?

Bone grafting in dentistry is a surgical procedure used to reconstruct or strengthen the jawbone. It involves the insertion of bone material into areas where the jaw has lost volume or density, often due to missing teeth, gum disease or trauma. The goal is to regenerate enough bone to safely support a dental implant.

This procedure is common in cases where the natural bone is too weak or too thin to support an implant on its own. Over time, the grafted material integrates with the existing bone, promoting the growth of new bone and forming a stable base.

Whether the graft comes from the patient's own body, from a donor or from synthetic material, the goal is always the same: to restore the strength and structure of the jawbone to make dental implants possible.

Why Bone Grafting Is Necessary Before Implants

Dental implants need strong and stable jawbone to remain in place. When the bone is missing or too thin, the implant may not fuse properly, leading to failure or complications. Bone grafting helps rebuild the structure needed to support the implant safely.

Bone loss in the jaw can occur for several reasons: missing teeth, advanced gum disease or an injury are among the most common. If this loss is not addressed, the bone will not be sufficient for anchoring the implant. Bone grafting ensures that the implant has a solid and healthy base, improving the chances of long-term success and functionality.

Types Of Bone Grafts Used In Dental Procedures

Autotransplantation

The bone is taken from the patient's body, usually from the jaw, hip or tibia.
It is considered the most effective option for bone regeneration due to its compatibility.

Allograft

The bone is taken from a human donor (usually a cadaver) and processed for safety.
It eliminates the need for a second surgical site on the patient.

Xenotransplantation

Bone is derived from an animal source, usually cattle.
It acts as a scaffold for the patient's bone growth.

Alloplast

Synthetic bone grafts are made from biocompatible materials such as calcium phosphate or bioactive glass.
Useful in cases where natural grafts are not preferred or available.

The Bone Grafting Procedure: Step by Step

The dentist performs a complete evaluation, including X-rays or CT scan, to assess bone loss and plan the grafting procedure.
Local anaesthesia or sedation is administered to keep the patient comfortable. The surgical area is cleaned and prepared for the graft.
The chosen material - autograft, allograft, xenograft or synthetic - is inserted in the area where bone is missing. It can be fixed with membranes, screws or mesh.
The surgical site is closed with dissolvable or removable sutures. Healing begins when the natural bone slowly fuses with the graft.
In the following months, the grafted area is monitored through follow-up visits. The new bone will grow and strengthen until it becomes stable enough to support a dental implant.

Who is a Good Candidate for Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is recommended for individuals who do not have sufficient jaw bone to support dental implants. This may result from long-term tooth loss, an injury or advanced gum disease. A good candidate is generally in good general health and has realistic expectations of healing time and results.

You might be a good candidate if you have: