About Bone Grafting

When teeth are lost, the jawbone that once supported them begins to deteriorate. Without the stimulation of tooth roots, the bone no longer receives the signals needed to maintain its density and volume and it resorbs. Over time, this bone loss affects implant candidacy, facial structure, alignment of remaining teeth, and overall oral function.

Bone grafting allows us to rebuild lost bone, restore the conditions needed for dental implants, and in many cases reverse the functional and cosmetic effects of prolonged bone loss.

Consequences of Jaw Bone Loss

Left untreated, missing teeth and the bone loss that follows can cause:

• Drifting, loosening, or loss of remaining teeth
• Collapsed facial profile and receding chin
• Skin wrinkling and loss of lip support around the mouth
• TMJ pain, facial pain, and headaches
• Difficulty chewing, speaking, or eating comfortably
• Sinus expansion into the upper jaw
• Ineligibility for dental implants without prior grafting

Types of Bone Graft Material

Our surgeons will recommend the most appropriate graft material based on your anatomy, the size of the defect, and your overall health:

Drs. Torio, Decoteau, Burk, Madden, and Farr will determine the best-suited material for your individual situation at your consultation.

Minor vs. Major Bone Grafting

• Minor bone grafting — Performed in-office under local anesthesia with sedation available. Used to repair implant sites, fill sockets after extraction, or augment the ridge or sinus. Most patients return to normal activity within a few days.
• Major bone grafting — Reserved for larger defects from trauma, tumor surgery, or significant jaw reconstruction. Bone is typically harvested from the jar, hip, or tibia. Performed in a hospital operating room or in office.