Bone & Tissue Reconstruction
Bone Reconstruction & Grafting
When teeth are lost or periodontal disease destroys the supporting bone, the jaw shrinks over time. Bone grafting rebuilds that lost volume using your own bone, donor or processed bone, or biocompatible materials, often combined with a barrier membrane to guide new bone growth (guided bone regeneration).
The rebuilt ridge restores the foundation needed to place implants — and supports a more natural facial contour. Techniques range from minor socket grafts to block grafts and vertical ridge augmentation for larger defects.
Who it's for
- Insufficient bone volume for planned implants
- Bone loss following extraction, gum disease, or trauma
- A collapsed or narrow ridge that needs rebuilding before implants
- Long-standing tooth loss with significant resorption
What to expect
- 1
Assessment & 3D imaging
CBCT imaging quantifies the defect and defines the right grafting approach for the site.
- 2
Grafting procedure
Graft material is placed and, where needed, protected by a barrier membrane to direct healing.
- 3
Bone maturation
The graft integrates and matures into solid bone over several months.
- 4
Implant placement
Once the foundation is ready, implants are placed into the restored ridge.
Recovery & aftercare
Mild swelling, soreness, and sometimes bruising are normal — usually settling within a week or two and controlled with over-the-counter pain relief. You'll receive specific instructions on diet, oral hygiene, and protecting the graft site.
Healing time before implants can be placed depends on the size of the graft and is confirmed at follow-up.
Common questions
- Where does the bone come from?
- Depending on the case, graft material may be your own bone, donor or animal-derived bone from licensed tissue banks, or a synthetic substitute. The choice is matched to the defect.
- How long does a bone graft take to heal?
- Small grafts may be ready in a few months; larger reconstructions take longer. Imaging at follow-up confirms when the site is ready for implants.
- Is grafting always needed for implants?
- No. Many implants are placed without grafting. It is recommended only when there isn't enough healthy bone to support the implant.
Talk to a specialist about bone reconstruction & grafting
Whether you're a patient considering treatment or a dentist referring a case, we'll evaluate, plan, and coordinate care from diagnosis through follow-up.
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Diagnosis and treatment should always be determined by a qualified dental professional based on your individual condition.