Restorative Dentistry

Bone Grafts

Preserving and rebuilding jawbone density — the essential foundation for dental implants and long-term oral health after tooth loss.

Healing3–6 months
AnesthesiaLocal
PurposeImplant prep & preservation
SedationAvailable
Hero photo · bone grafts
Overview

What bone grafting actually does.

Bone grafting is a procedure that preserves or rebuilds jawbone density that has been lost due to tooth extraction, gum disease, or injury. The jawbone is a living structure — and without the stimulation of a tooth root, it begins to resorb (shrink) within weeks of a tooth loss. A bone graft halts that process and creates the structural foundation needed for a dental implant or other restoration.

At Minty Smiles, bone grafting is performed by Dr. Nasiri, whose advanced implant training includes extensive experience with grafting techniques. We use high-quality graft materials and CBCT cone-beam imaging to plan every procedure with precision.

Without a graft after tooth loss, you may not have enough bone left for an implant — even a few months later. Timing matters.

Why It Matters

What happens when you don't act.

Bone loss after tooth extraction is silent and rapid. Understanding why grafting is recommended helps you make an informed decision.

01

Bone resorption begins immediately

Within weeks of a tooth extraction, the surrounding bone begins to resorb. Within a year, up to 40% of bone width and 60% of bone height can be lost in the extraction site.

02

Implants require adequate bone volume

A dental implant needs sufficient bone to anchor into. If you wait too long after extraction, you may need a more extensive grafting procedure before an implant is even possible.

03

Adjacent teeth are affected

Bone loss around an extraction site can affect neighboring teeth, leading to shifting, loosening, and further tooth loss over time.

04

Facial structure changes

The jawbone gives your face structure. Progressive bone loss leads to a sunken or aged appearance in the lower face — often seen in patients who have worn dentures for many years without implant support.

Types of Bone Grafts

Three grafting approaches we offer.

The right type of graft depends on where bone has been lost, how much, and what the treatment goal is. Dr. Nasiri will recommend the most appropriate option at your consultation.

01 Type 01

Socket Preservation

Graft material is placed in the extraction socket immediately after a tooth is removed. This is the most common and minimally invasive type, designed to prevent bone loss before it starts.

02 Type 02

Ridge Augmentation

If bone has already been lost, ridge augmentation rebuilds the height and width of the jawbone, creating enough volume to support a dental implant.

03 Type 03

Sinus Lift

In the upper jaw, the sinus cavity can limit implant placement. A sinus lift raises the sinus floor and adds bone graft material to create space for an implant in the posterior upper jaw.

What to Expect

How the procedure goes.

Bone grafting at Minty Smiles follows a structured, transparent process. Here's exactly what happens at each stage.

01 Step 01

Consultation & CBCT scan

We take a 3D cone-beam CT scan to assess your bone volume and structure. Dr. Nasiri reviews the images with you and explains the recommended graft type.

02 Step 02

Graft placement

Under local anesthesia, graft material is placed at the treatment site. The area is sutured closed and protected with a membrane. The procedure is typically 45–90 minutes.

03 Step 03

Healing period

Over 3–6 months, your body integrates the graft material and new bone forms. Soft foods and careful oral hygiene are recommended during this period.

04 Step 04

Follow-up & implant

We confirm with imaging that sufficient bone has formed, then proceed with implant placement or the planned restoration.

Questions

The things everyone asks.

Is a bone graft painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won't feel pain during it. Afterward, patients typically experience mild soreness and swelling for 3–5 days, which is managed with over-the-counter pain medication. IV sedation is available for patients who prefer it.
What is recovery like after bone grafting?
Most patients return to normal activity within a day or two. You'll be advised to eat soft foods, avoid strenuous exercise for a week, and rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash. A follow-up appointment is scheduled 1–2 weeks after the procedure to check healing.
Do I need a graft before getting an implant?
Not always. Many patients have sufficient bone volume for immediate implant placement. A bone graft is only recommended when imaging shows inadequate bone density or volume at the implant site. We confirm this with a CBCT scan at your consultation.
How long does it take for the graft to heal?
New bone formation typically takes 3–6 months, depending on the size and location of the graft, your overall health, and whether smoking or other factors are involved.
Does insurance cover bone grafting?
Coverage varies by plan. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of bone grafting, especially when it is documented as medically necessary before implant placement. We verify your benefits at no cost before treatment.
Related Services

Often paired with this.

Bone grafting is most commonly performed alongside or in preparation for these treatments.

Ready to begin?

Questions about bone grafting? Call or book a consultation and we'll walk you through your options.

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