Bone Grafting Before Dental Implants: Why It Matters & What to Expect

Dental implants are one of the most reliable and long-lasting solutions for replacing missing teeth. However, not every patient has enough natural jawbone to support an implant right away. At Bellflower Oral Facial Surgery & Dental Implant Center, bone grafting is a common and carefully planned step that helps create a strong foundation for successful dental implants.

What Is Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting is a procedure that adds or rebuilds bone in the jaw where bone loss has occurred. Over time, missing teeth can cause the jawbone to shrink or weaken because it’s no longer stimulated by chewing forces. Bone grafting restores that lost volume so a dental implant can be securely placed.

The graft material acts as a scaffold, allowing your body to gradually grow new bone in the area. Once healing is complete, the jawbone
becomes strong enough to support a dental implant just like a natural tooth root.

Why Bone Grafting Is Important Before Dental Implants

Dental implants rely on a process called osseointegration - where the implant fuses with the surrounding bone. Without adequate bone, this process can’t occur properly.

Bone grafting helps by:

• Providing a stable foundation for the implant
• Improving long-term implant success and durability
• Restoring facial structure and preventing a sunken appearance
• Allowing patients who were previously told they weren’t candidates for implants to move forward

Common Reasons Patients Need Bone Grafting

You may need bone grafting before dental implants if you’ve experienced:

• Tooth loss that occurred months or years ago
• Gum disease (periodontal disease) that damaged the jawbone
• Trauma or injury to the mouth or jaw
• Natural bone loss due to aging
• Missing teeth since childhood or early adulthood

A detailed evaluation, including advanced imaging, helps determine whether bone grafting is needed.

What to Expect During the Bone Grafting Procedure

Bone grafting is typically performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia for your comfort. The procedure involves placing graft material into the area of bone loss and securing it so healing can begin. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure, and the process is often quicker than expected.

Healing after bone grafting varies depending on the size and type of graft, but most patients can expect:

• Mild swelling and soreness for a few days
• Return to normal activities within a short time
• Gradual bone regeneration over several months

Learn If Bone Grafting Is Right for You

Bone grafting plays a crucial role in making dental implants possible for many patients. By rebuilding lost bone and creating a strong foundation, bone grafting improves implant success, function, and long-term oral health. While the idea of bone grafting may sound intimidating, modern techniques make it a safe, predictable, and effective step toward restoring your smile.

If you’re considering dental implants or have been told you may need bone grafting, schedule a consultation with Bellflower Oral Facial Surgery & Dental Implant Center to learn more about your options. Visit our office in Bellflower, California, or call (562) 442-2300 today.