There are various circumstances in which you may need a bone graft prior to implant placement.

 

1 - After tooth extraction, a bone graft procedure may be done to fill the empty socket with bone. This will maintain the width and volume of bone you will need for implant placement. The new bone will be healed in 3-6 months. At that time an implant can safely be placed.

 

2 - If you tooth has been missing for many years, there may be inadequate bone for implant placement because your bony ridge may be extremely thin. In this case, a bone graft can be placed next to the thin bone and allowed to heal for 3-6 months. Once the grafted bone and your natural bone have fused, the implant can be placed.

 

3 - You may also need bone grafting if your sinus cavities are very large, or very low, and extend into the tooth-bearing areas. In this scenario, the amount of bone available for implant placement is limited. A “sinus grafting procedure” is then required (please learn more by clicking on the "Sinus Augmentation" tab). Bone is added to restore the bone height and ensure that dental implants of an adequate length can be placed. This procedure often can be performed at the time of implant placement.

 

Bone grafting is usually a relatively comfortable office procedure. Many different bone-grafting materials are available, including your own bone.