What Is A Bone Graft? How Does It Work?

 What is a bone graft? What is its purpose?

A bone graft is a biological material used to fill missing volume in the jawbone or to strengthen a weak area. After tooth loss, the jawbone gradually erodes and thins over time. This can prevent dental implant treatment from being performed safely.
This is precisely where bone grafting comes into play:

• It supports the jawbone,

• It creates a solid foundation for the implant to anchor to,

• It reconstructs lost bone tissue.

Thanks to this procedure, implant placement becomes possible for many patients for whom it was previously not an option.

Who needs a bone graft? When is it necessary?

Bone grafts are usually applied in the following situations:

• If bone resorption in the jaw has occurred after tooth loss

• If bone loss has developed due to periodontal disease

• If bone damage has occurred after trauma or an accident

• If bone height is insufficient in areas close to the sinus cavity

• If bone loss was experienced due to a previously failed implant

The most common reason is bone resorption following a tooth extraction. Within one year after a tooth is extracted, there can be up to a 30% volume loss in the bone. Therefore, many patients need a graft procedure prior to getting an implant.

What types of bone grafts are used? What are the differences between them?

Bone grafts are divided into four main groups:

• It is the most natural graft type with the highest biological compatibility.

• It can be taken from the chin, the back of the jaw, or another area.

• It is the graft type that heals the fastest.

• It is bone tissue prepared in a sterile and safe manner.

• It does not require additional surgery.

• It provides moderately fast healing.

• It is the most widely used graft type in the world.

• It provides slow but strong bone formation.

• It creates excellent stability for the implant.

• These are biocompatible materials produced in a laboratory.

• It is one of the cleanest and safest options.

• It shows slow healing.

The choice among these grafts is determined based on the patient's bone structure, the volume needed, and the dentist's experience. At İmplanttr, our specialists help select the most suitable graft material for your specific needs.

How is a bone graft applied? Is the procedure painful?

The bone grafting procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, and most patients do not feel pain during the procedure. The procedural steps are as follows:

1. The gum is lifted.

2. The area to receive the graft is cleaned.

3. The bone graft is placed into the cavity.

4. A protective membrane is added on top if necessary.

5. The tissue is sutured closed.

Mild swelling and discomfort may occur after the procedure. However, it is controllable with painkillers and does not affect daily life for most patients.

What is the recovery process like after a bone graft? How long does it take?

It takes an average of 3–6 months for the graft to fully integrate with the bone.
Factors affecting this duration:

• The type of graft used

• The quality of the bone

• The scope of the operation

• The patient's age and health status

• Smoking

Smoking, in particular, is one of the most important factors that slows down healing.

In some minor graft applications (for example, extraction socket grafting), an implant can be placed within 8–12 weeks.
The duration may be longer for larger grafts.

 Can the graft application and implant be done at the same time?

Yes, in some cases, bone grafting and implant placement can be performed in the same session.
This is especially possible with small volume grafts.

However, in cases of major bone loss, the graft is done first, and the implant is placed 3–6 months later.
This decision is made by a specialist dentist using X-rays and tomography.

What should be considered after a bone graft?

To accelerate healing, the following rules should be followed:

• Cold compress for the first 24 hours

• Avoiding smoking and alcohol

• Regular use of antibiotics and painkillers

• Avoiding hard foods

• Maintaining oral hygiene

• Not rinsing the mouth on the first day

• Avoiding pressure on the area with stitches

Following these rules significantly increases the success rate of the graft.

Can a bone graft fail? What are the complications?

As with any surgical procedure, rare complications can occur with grafting:

• Infection

• Graft resorption

• Suture opening

• Membrane exposure

• Increased swelling

If these situations are noticed early, they can be easily controlled.
The overall success rate is at the 90–95% level.

How does a bone graft affect implant success?

A successful graft application ensures the implant:

• Is held more securely,

• Can be used trouble-free for many years,

• Has a stronger titanium-bone fusion (osseointegration).

Therefore, a bone graft forms the foundation of implant treatment for many patients.

A bone graft is an important procedure in implant treatment that strengthens missing or weak bone.
Thanks to the correct graft selection, appropriate surgical technique, and the patient's adherence to care instructions, the procedure achieves high success. Through grafting, implants can be safely applied to many patients for whom it was previously not possible. The team at İmplanttr has extensive experience in these advanced procedures, helping patients achieve healthy, functional smiles.