Bone Grafting

Bone Grafting is a common procedure that helps restore and rebuild bone in the jaw, often as a necessary step before placing Dental Implants. If bone loss has occurred due to tooth loss, gum disease, injury, or infection, grafting can regenerate the lost structure and create a strong, stable foundation for future treatment.

Overview

What is Bone Grafting?

Bone Grafting is a surgical procedure that adds or regenerates bone in areas where the jaw has deteriorated. When a tooth is lost and not replaced promptly, the surrounding bone begins to shrink over time—a process called bone resorption. Without adequate bone, placing Dental Implants may not be possible.
Bone Grafting helps:
  • Rebuild jawbone for future Dental Implants
  • Prevent further bone loss
  • Restore facial structure and support
  • Improve long-term oral health
Bone material used in grafting may be taken from your own body (autograft), a donor source (allograft), synthetic materials, or a combination—depending on your specific needs.

When is Bone Grafting needed?

Bone Grafting may be recommended if you have:
  • Missing teeth with significant bone loss
  • Advanced periodontal (gum) disease
  • Bone damage from trauma or infection
  • A sinus cavity that has expanded into the upper jaw (requiring a Sinus Lift)
  • Plans to receive dental implants in areas with insufficient bone
Our team will evaluate your condition using 3D Imaging and determine the best approach to restore bone volume safely and effectively.

From prep to recovery, you’re in good hands.

Before surgery

Consultation & treatment planning

Your consultation begins with digital X-Rays or a 3D CT Scan to assess the quality, location, and density of your jawbone. From there, we’ll:

  • Review your medical and dental history
  • Identify areas of bone loss
  • Discuss your future Dental Implant plans (if applicable)
  • Recommend the type of grafting best suited for your needs

You’ll receive a personalized treatment plan outlining the grafting material, surgical timeline, and steps for recovery.

During surgery

The procedure

Bone Grafting is typically performed under Local Anesthesia, often with IV Sedation for your comfort. During the procedure, the Bone Graft material is placed in the affected area and secured. In some cases, a protective membrane may be used to guide healing and prevent tissue interference.

Types of Bone Grafting may include:

  • Socket Preservation (Ridge Preservation): Immediately after Tooth Extraction to maintain bone structure
  • Ridge Augmentation: To rebuild the jaw ridge after bone loss
  • Sinus Lift: To raise the sinus floor and add bone to the upper molar/premolar region
  • Block Graft: For larger areas of bone loss, using a solid piece of bone

Most procedures are completed in under an hour, depending on the complexity.

After surgery

Recovery & healing

Healing typically occurs over several months, allowing the graft to integrate with your natural bone (a process called Osseointegration). During this time:

  • You may experience mild swelling, soreness, or bruising for a few days
  • A soft food diet is recommended during initial healing
  • We’ll provide detailed post-op care instructions, including oral hygiene tips and medications
  • Follow-up visits help us monitor your progress and ensure the graft is successful

Once healing is complete and bone volume is restored, you may be ready for the placement of Dental Implants.

Ready to restore your smile? If you’ve been told you don’t have enough bone for Dental Implants—or you’ve experienced bone loss due to missing teeth— Cleburne Oral Surgery is here to help.

Your questions, answered.

Cleburne Oral Surgery is here to address all your questions and concerns regarding Bone Grafting.
No. The procedure is performed under Local Anesthesia, with Sedation available for added comfort. After surgery, mild discomfort is normal and manageable with medication.
Initial healing takes 1–2 weeks, but full integration of the graft can take 3–6 months, depending on the size and location of the graft.
In some cases, yes. However, most patients need to wait several months for the graft to fully heal before implants can be placed.
Bone Grafts may come from your own body, a donor source, or synthetic materials. We’ll select the option best suited for your needs and comfort.
Complications are rare but may include infection, graft rejection, or delayed healing. We take every precaution to minimize risks and ensure a smooth recovery.
Coverage varies. Some insurance plans cover Bone Grafting if it’s medically necessary. We’ll help you understand your benefits and provide a treatment estimate.