Bone Grafting and Site Preservation
What is dental bone grafting?
Dental bone grafting is a procedure that rebuilds or strengthens bone in the jaw to support dental implants or prevent bone loss after a tooth extraction. It involves placing bone material (natural or synthetic) in the area where bone has deteriorated, helping to preserve jaw structure and function.
This procedure is essential for patients who need dental implants or want to prevent bone loss after an extraction.
When is bone grafting necessary? (Indications for Bone Grafting)
You may need a bone graft if you:
✔️ Want a dental implant but don’t have enough bone support
✔️ Had a tooth extracted and want to prevent bone loss
✔️ Have periodontal (gum) disease that caused bone loss
✔️ Experienced facial trauma that affected your jawbone
✔️ Want to maintain your facial structure after tooth loss
Bone grafting helps restore bone volume and strength, ensuring a healthy foundation for future dental work.
What is site preservation after tooth extraction?
Socket preservation (ridge preservation) is a type of bone graft placed immediately after a tooth extraction to maintain the shape and density of the jawbone. It prevents bone shrinkage and gum recession, making it easier to place a dental implant in the future.
If you’re planning to replace a missing tooth with an implant, socket preservation ensures a strong, stable foundation.
Who is not a candidate for bone grafting? (Contraindications for Bone Grafting)
Bone grafting may not be suitable if you:
❌ Have uncontrolled diabetes or osteoporosis (can slow healing)
❌ Have severe gum disease that isn’t treated first
❌ Are a heavy smoker, as smoking reduces bone healing
❌ Have certain autoimmune conditions that affect bone regeneration
If a bone graft isn’t possible, we’ll explore alternative solutions to restore your smile.
What are the different types of bone grafts?
Yes! Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities—especially in young children. We may recommend a safe fluoride treatment at the end of their cleaning to keep their teeth strong between visits.
Is a child’s dental cleaning painful?
✔️ Autograft – Uses your own bone (usually from the jaw or hip).
✔️ Allograft – Uses donor bone from a tissue bank.
✔️ Xenograft – Uses animal bone (often bovine/cow bone).
✔️ Alloplastic Graft – Uses synthetic bone material.
Each type has its advantages based on healing time and compatibility. We’ll help you choose the best option for your needs.
How is a bone graft procedure done?
✔️ Step 1: The area is numbed with local anesthesia.
✔️ Step 2: Tooth is extracted.
✔️ Step 2: Tooth is extracted.
✔️ Step 3: Bone graft material is placed into the site.
✔️ Step 4: A protective membrane is used to cover the graft.
✔️ Step 5: The area is sutured, and healing begins.
The procedure is quick and painless, usually taking 30-60 minutes.
Does bone grafting hurt?
Not at all! The area is completely numbed during the procedure. You may feel mild discomfort or swelling for a few days afterward, but it’s easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Most patients say the procedure is easier than they expected!
How long does a bone graft take to heal?
✔️ Initial healing: 1-2 weeks (gum tissue heals).
✔️ Bone integration: 3-6 months (new bone fully develops).
Once healed, the area is strong enough to support a dental implant or other restorations.
Can I eat after a bone graft?
Yes! But stick to soft foods for the first 7-10 days, including:
✔️ Mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled eggs, soups
✔️ Smoothies (without straws), oatmeal, soft pasta
Avoid crunchy, spicy, or hard foods to prevent irritation.
How much does a dental bone graft cost?
✔️ Basic bone graft: $300 - $800 per site
✔️ Extensive grafting procedures: $1,000 - $3,000
Some dental insurance plans cover bone grafts, especially if they are medically necessary.
Can a bone graft fail?
While rare, a bone graft can fail if:
❌ You don’t follow aftercare instructions
❌ You smoke or drink alcohol during healing
❌ You have uncontrolled medical conditions
If a graft fails, a second grafting procedure can usually be done to fix the issue.
Will a bone graft change my facial appearance?
Yes, in a good way! Bone grafting can restore lost facial volume, preventing the sunken look that happens after tooth loss. It helps maintain a youthful appearance and preserves the natural shape of your face.
At Parker Dental Studio in Parker, CO, we excel in bone grafting and site preservation to ensure strong, lasting results for dental implants and oral health. If you need bone grafting for an implant or socket preservation, schedule your consultation today!
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