If your dentist has mentioned bone grafting as part of your dental implant journey, it’s natural to be curious about it. Bone grafting isn’t needed for every implant patient, but for some, it’s an important step that helps the implant succeed long-term.
This guide explains what bone grafting involves, why the jaw sometimes needs it, and what the process looks like so you know what to expect.
What is bone grafting for dental implants?
A dental implant relies on a solid foundation. It’s placed directly into the jawbone, where it fuses to the bone through a process called osseointegration. If there isn’t enough bone width, height or density at the implant site, the implant may not integrate properly. Bone grafting rebuilds that foundation by adding bone material to the area, giving the jaw time to grow new bone before or during implant placement.
Why does the jaw lose bone in the first place?
Bone in the jaw needs regular stimulation to stay strong, which usually comes from the pressure of chewing. When a tooth is lost and the space isn’t filled, that stimulation stops, and the surrounding bone begins to shrink.
Research published in the International Journal of Dentistry found that the jawbone can lose up to half its width in just one year after a tooth is lost, with most of that shrinking happening in the first three months. That’s a significant amount of change in a short window, which is part of why dentists recommend addressing missing teeth sooner rather than later.
Beyond simple tooth loss, other common causes of bone loss could include
- gum disease
- an injury to the jaw
- wearing dentures for an extended period without any implant support underneath them
When is a bone graft actually needed?
Not every implant patient needs a graft. Many people have more than enough bone to go straight to implant placement. A graft is typically recommended when:
- The jawbone has thinned or shrunk following tooth loss, gum disease or injury
- An X-ray or CBCT scan shows insufficient bone height or width to anchor the implant securely
- A tooth has been missing for an extended period, allowing significant resorption to occur
- Implant placement is planned in the upper back jaw, where the sinus cavity can limit available bone (sometimes requiring a specific graft called a sinus lift)
At DDII, we use Rayscan CBCT imaging to get a detailed 3D view of your jaw before recommending any treatment, so any grafting need is identified early and planned precisely.
Types of bone grafts used before implants
There are a few different graft materials your dentist might use, depending on your situation:
- Autograft – bone taken from another site in your own body, often considered highly effective because it’s your own living tissue
- Allograft – donor bone sourced from a tissue bank and processed to be safe for use
- Xenograft – bone material derived from an animal source, commonly used and well-studied
- Synthetic graft – a lab-made material designed to encourage your body’s own bone to grow
Each option has its own advantages, and your dentist will recommend the one best suited to the size and location of the graft you need.
What to expect during bone grafting and recovery
Bone grafting is typically done as a minor surgical procedure under local anaesthetic. Many patients experience only mild discomfort afterwards, though this varies by case, and your dentist will talk you through appropriate pain management.
Healing time before implant placement can also range from a few months to around six to nine months, depending on how much bone needs to regenerate.
It takes time, but it’s time well spent. A 2024 study looked at implants placed in areas that had a bone graft first. It found that 92.8% of the grafts succeeded, and 95.5% of the implants survived afterwards, showing just how well grafting can set an implant up to last.
Every patient heals a little differently, though, so always remember that recovery stages differ for each one. Your dentist will be the one who’ll give you a better understanding of what you may expect during your healing process. They will also look at your scan and your overall oral health, then give you a timeline that’s right for you.
Cost and health fund considerations
The cost of bone grafting for dental implants depends on the type and amount of graft needed, along with whether it’s done as a standalone procedure or alongside implant placement. Because every case is different, we recommend booking a consultation so we can assess your jaw and give you a personalised quote, including any applicable health fund rebate.
The takeaway on bone grafting for dental implants
Bone grafting isn’t a setback in your implant journey. It’s a proven step that helps set your implant up for long-term success, particularly if bone loss has occurred since your tooth was lost. If you’re exploring dental implants and want to know whether bone grafting applies to you, our team at DDII will help. We can cover what you may expect from digital dental implants, including what the full treatment process looks like from consultation through to your finished restoration.
Book a consultation with DDII in Gosford, and we’ll assess your jaw with a CBCT scan and talk you through your options.
Book online today or call us on (02) 4325 5825.
This information is general in nature and isn’t a substitute for a personal consultation. If you’re considering dental implants or any other treatment, book a consultation with DDII on (02) 4325 5825.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does bone grafting hurt?
Bone grafting is done under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure itself. Many patients experience only mild discomfort afterwards, though this varies by case.
Your dentist will talk you through pain management options, so you know what to expect during recovery.
How long does it take before I can get my implant?
Healing time depends on how much bone needs to grow back. It can range from a few months to around six to nine months. Your dentist will take a scan to check your progress and confirm when your jaw is ready for implant placement.
Can I get a bone graft and implant on the same day?
In some cases, yes. If there’s only a small amount of bone loss, your dentist may be able to place the graft and implant together. For larger grafts, it’s usually safer to let the bone heal first before adding the implant.
Your dentist will assess what’s right for your case.
