Bone augmentation and grafting

Bone augmentation (grafting) may be required when there is not enough bone volume or density to securely anchor a dental implant, which is common following long-standing tooth loss, advanced gum disease, prior infection or trauma. Grafting can sometimes be performed at the same appointment as the extraction (a technique known as socket preservation), at a separate appointment several months before the implant is placed, or in appropriately selected cases alongside the implant itself. CBCT (cone-beam CT) imaging is used at consultation to plan this accurately and confirm whether grafting is required.

Our surgeons use meticulous technique and the most up-to-date and novel bio-materials available. The graft material may be autogenous (your own bone, harvested from within the mouth or occasionally the hip), allograft, xenograft or a synthetic substitute, selected based on your case. The choice depends on graft volume, the planned implant site, and your medical history.

Bone graft integration typically takes 3 to 6 months before the site is ready for implant placement, although this varies with graft type and volume. Smaller socket preservation grafts may be ready sooner; larger ridge augmentation grafts often need the full 6 months. CBCT imaging is repeated to confirm adequate bone before the next stage.

Bone grafting is performed under local anaesthesia, intravenous sedation, or general anaesthesia depending on the volume of graft and your preference. Post-operative discomfort is usually well managed with prescribed pain medication for the first few days, with soft diet and head elevation aiding recovery.