Bone and Tissue Grafting: How it Works for Dental Implants

Successful dental implants depend on having a strong and healthy jawbone to support them because, without enough bone, the implant may not stay in place or heal properly. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, around 17% of adults over age 65 have lost all their teeth, often leading to bone loss in the jaw, known as jawbone atrophy. That’s where bone and soft tissue grafting come in to help restore both your smile and the function of your mouth. 

These procedures help rebuild lost bone or gum tissue so the mouth can support dental implants safely and effectively. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the situations where grafting is necessary, the various types of grafts available, and what to expect during recovery, so you can feel more confident about your next steps toward restoring your smile.

What is a Dental Bone Graft and Why Is It Needed?

A dental bone graft is a procedure that helps rebuild areas of the jawbone that have become weak or thin. This type of bone loss can occur when a tooth has been missing for an extended period, following gum disease, or as a result of a mouth injury. When there isn’t enough bone, a dental implant won’t have the support it needs to stay in place or heal correctly. 

Bone grafting is often the first step before implant placement. During the procedure, a dentist or oral surgeon places special grafting material, usually natural bone or a safe, synthetic substitute, into the area where bone is missing. Over time, your body builds new bone around the graft, creating a strong and stable base for the implant to attach to. 

Types of Bone Grafts for Dental Implants

There are a few types of bone grafts that can be used to prepare your jaw for a dental implant, and the right choice depends on your specific needs: 

• An autograft uses bone taken from your own body, usually from the chin or hip. Because it comes from you, it’s highly compatible and has a lower risk of rejection. 
• An allograft is another common option, which uses processed bone from a human donor.
• A xenograft, which comes from an animal source, typically bovine. These are safe, widely used, and don’t require a second surgical site on your body. 

For smaller grafts or less complex cases, synthetic grafts made from man-made materials can be used. These are designed to mimic natural bone and help support new bone growth. 

What to Expect During the Bone Grafting Procedure

The bone grafting procedure is usually done as an outpatient procedure and is typically a straightforward process. Here’s what you can expect: 

• To keep you comfortable, your oral surgeon will use local anesthesia to numb the area, and in some cases, you may be given sedation to help you relax. 
• Once the area is numb, a small incision is made in the gum to access the part of the jaw where bone is missing. The grafting material, whether it’s your own bone, donor bone, or a synthetic material, is carefully placed into the space to help rebuild the bone. 
• After the graft is in place, the gum is stitched closed, and the healing process begins. 
• Most people need to wait about three to six months for the graft to fully integrate with the natural bone before getting a dental implant. During this time, your oral surgeon will monitor your progress to make sure the area is healing properly. 

Soft Tissue Grafting: When Is It Necessary?

Soft tissue grafting may be necessary before or after a dental implant if the gums are too thin or have receded excessively, making it difficult to properly support or cover the implant. Healthy, thick gum tissue not only helps the implant stay in place but also protects it from bacteria and improves the overall look of your smile. Without enough gum coverage, the implant might become exposed or look unnatural. 

To fix this, an oral surgeon can perform a gum graft, which usually involves taking a small piece of tissue from the roof of your mouth or using processed donor tissue. This graft is placed where it’s needed to build up the gumline and create a stronger, more natural-looking foundation around the implant. 

Where to Find the Best Oral Surgeon in Los Angeles for Bone Grafting

At Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Group, we approach bone grafting with precision, transparency, and a deep commitment to patient comfort. Whether you're visiting us in Hermosa Beach, Westchester, or Culver City, your experience begins with a comprehensive evaluation using advanced imaging technology, allowing us to create the most informed plan for your care. 

If grafting is necessary, we offer a range of techniques tailored to your individual oral anatomy and treatment objectives. In some cases, we can even streamline your care by placing implants during the same visit. Our surgeons, Dr. Lohiya, Dr. Estess, and Dr. Donlevy, take the time to explain every step, offer personalized anesthesia options, and provide 24/7 support during recovery. 

Ready to get the bone or tissue graft that you need to move confidently toward a smile that lasts with the best oral surgeons in Los Angeles?