Bone Grafts

What Is a Bone Graft?

A bone graft is a procedure that rebuilds or strengthens areas of your jawbone that have deteriorated due to tooth loss, gum disease, or injury. By adding bone material to the affected area, we create a stable foundation for dental implants or help preserve your facial structure.

Many patients who have been told they don't have enough bone for implants find that a bone graft opens the door to a complete, permanent tooth replacement solution.

Why You Might Need a Bone Graft

Your jawbone needs stimulation from tooth roots to maintain its density. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone begins to shrink—sometimes losing up to 25% of its width in the first year alone.

We may recommend a bone graft if you:

• Are planning for dental implants but lack sufficient bone density
• Have experienced bone loss from periodontal disease
• Need to preserve the socket after a tooth extraction
• Want to restore facial contours affected by bone deterioration

Types of Bone Grafting

We tailor the grafting technique to your specific needs:

Socket Preservation Grafts are placed immediately after tooth extraction to maintain bone volume and prepare the site for a future implant.

Ridge Augmentation rebuilds the width and height of the jawbone in areas where significant bone loss has occurred.

Sinus Lifts add bone to the upper jaw in the molar and premolar area, creating enough height for implants when the sinus cavity sits too low.

What to Expect

The procedure is performed comfortably in our Egg Harbor Township office, typically under local anesthesia. We place the graft material in the treatment area, where it will integrate with your natural bone over the following months.

Most patients experience only mild discomfort, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Swelling and tenderness usually subside within a few days.

Healing time varies—typically 3 to 6 months—depending on the size and location of the graft. During this time, your body gradually replaces the graft material with your own healthy bone.

Moving Forward with Confidence

A bone graft is an investment in your long-term oral health. It makes dental implants possible, preserves your facial appearance, and protects neighboring teeth from shifting.

We'll walk you through every step, answer all your questions, and make sure you feel completely comfortable before we begin. If you've been told you need a bone graft—or if you're curious whether implants are an option for you—let's talk.