Bone Grafting

The alveolar ridges are thickened areas of bone along the upper and lower jaws that hold teeth securely in place within sockets by means of periodontal ligaments. When bone volume or density is lost, that support weakens, potentially leading to tooth mobility and loss. Bone grafting is a common surgical procedure used to repair or rebuild areas of damaged or deficient bone.

Jawbone loss can significantly affect your oral health and facial structure. As bone deteriorates, teeth may loosen or shift, altering your bite and overall function. Insufficient bone density can also prevent the placement of dental implants or implant-supported dentures. Over time, reduced bone support may cause facial muscles and features to appear sunken, particularly around the lips, cheeks, and chin.

Conditions That Cause Bone Loss

Resorption

After a tooth is lost, the bone that once supported it begins to shrink in a natural process called resorption. Without stimulation from chewing and biting, bone cells are not replaced quickly enough, resulting in gradual bone deterioration.

Periodontitis

Advanced gum disease is a leading cause of bone and tooth loss. If left untreated, periodontitis leads to gum recession and exposes underlying bone and connective tissue to harmful bacteria, accelerating bone destruction.

Trauma

Injuries to the jaw may damage bone structure and require grafting to restore proper form and function.

Bone Structure and Size

In some cases, the alveolar ridge may be too narrow or shallow to support a dental implant, particularly in the upper back jaw near the sinus cavity. Bone augmentation may be necessary before implant placement.

Bone Graft Procedure

To prevent ongoing bone loss and restore stability, your dentist may recommend a bone graft. During this procedure, grafting material is placed in the affected area, serving as a scaffold that encourages your natural bone to regenerate and rebuild lost volume and density.

Several types of grafting materials are available, and your dentist will recommend the best option based on your needs:

Autografts: Bone taken from another area of your own body.

Allografts: Donor bone obtained from a screened human tissue bank.

Xenografts: Processed bone from an animal source, typically bovine.

Alloplastic grafts: Synthetic materials made from biocompatible minerals.

In some cases, growth factors may be used to stimulate new bone formation. Autografts are often highly effective because they contain living cells that actively regenerate bone, while other graft materials provide a supportive framework for natural bone growth.

Bone grafting is typically performed under local anesthesia, though sedation options may be available. During the procedure, the gum tissue is gently opened to expose the area, the graft material is placed and shaped, and a protective membrane may be positioned to stabilize the site. The gums are then sutured closed.

Sutures and membranes may dissolve naturally or require removal at a follow-up visit. Your dentist will provide detailed aftercare instructions, and healing time will vary depending on the size and type of graft placed.

By restoring the size, shape, and strength of your jawbone, bone grafting helps prevent further bone and tooth loss while creating a stable foundation for future dental implants. Consult your dentist to learn how bone grafting can enhance your oral health and support a confident, lasting smile.