Is It Necessary?
Many patients who want dental implants hear this during consultation:
“You may need a bone graft before placing the implant.”
Naturally, this creates concern.
- Why is bone graft needed?
- Does it reduce success rate?
- Is it safe in Sri Lanka?
- Is it painful?
- Does it increase cost?
Let’s explain clearly — using both global research and Cayo Dental’s clinical experience.
Why Is Bone Important for Dental Implants?
A dental implant acts like an artificial tooth root.
It must be surrounded by healthy bone to remain stable.
When a tooth is lost:
The bone in that area begins shrinking
This process is called bone resorption
Significant bone loss can occur within months
This means bridges may need multiple replacements over time.
If bone is too thin or too soft, the implant cannot anchor securely.
That’s where bone grafting becomes necessary.
How Common Is Bone Grafting?
Globally, bone grafting is common in implant dentistry.
At Cayo Dental:
Approximately 20% of implant patients require bone grafting before or during implant placement
This means 1 out of 5 implant cases may need additional bone support.
This is not unusual.
It is part of responsible case selection.
Why Does Bone Loss Happen?
Bone loss may occur due to:
- Delayed replacement after tooth extraction
- Infection
- Long-term denture use
- Gum disease
- Trauma
The longer the tooth has been missing, the higher the chance bone has reduced.
How Cayo Dental Determines the Need for Bone Graft
At Cayo Dental, CBCT 3D imaging is used before implant placement.
This allows assessment of:
Bone width
Bone height
Bone density
Nerve position
Sinus proximity
Without 3D planning, bone deficiency may be underestimated.
This is why Cayo Dental emphasizes structured maintenance — not just surgery.
Types of Bone Grafting
There are different types depending on the situation:
1
Minor Bone Grafting
Small volume added at time of implant placement.
2
Major Ridge Augmentation
Larger reconstruction before implant placement.
3
Sinus Lift Procedure
When upper back jaw lacks vertical bone height.
Each case is evaluated individually.
Does Bone Grafting Reduce Implant Success?
According to research indexed in PubMed:
When performed properly, bone grafting does NOT significantly reduce implant success rates.
In fact:
Bone grafting often improves long-term success by creating proper support.
At Cayo Dental, implants are usually loaded after 3–6 months of healing, allowing both graft and implant to integrate properly.
Does Bone Grafting Increase Cost?
Yes — bone grafting increases initial treatment cost.
However:
Skipping necessary grafting increases the risk of implant failure.
It is safer to build a strong foundation than to place an unstable implant.
Long-term stability always outweighs short-term savings.
What Happens If Bone Graft Is Not Done When Needed?
Possible complications include:
- Implant loosening
- Aesthetic problems
- Bone fracture
- Improper angulation
- Early failure
Responsible clinics avoid shortcuts.
Bone Graft Healing Timeline
Typical healing:
- Minor graft with implant: 3–6 months
- Major graft before implant: 4–6 months before placement
Healing depends on:
- Patient health
- Smoking status
- Diabetes control
At Cayo Dental patient demographics show:
smokers
0
%
diabetic patients
0
%
Because of this, proper healing time is strictly observed.
Is Bone Grafting Painful?
Bone grafting is performed under local anesthesia.
Most patients report:
- Mild swelling
- Temporary discomfort
- Minimal downtime
Post-operative instructions are critical.
Cayo Dental Bone Grafting Protocol vs Non-Structured Approach
| Factor | Non-Structured Approach | Cayo Dental Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Bone assessment | Basic X-ray | CBCT 3D evaluation |
| Graft decision | Visual estimate | Measured bone density |
| Healing time | Often rushed | 3–6 month integration |
| Smoking counseling | Sometimes ignored | Pre-surgical counseling |
| Review protocol | Irregular | Structured 6-month review |
This reduces long-term complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can implants be placed without bone graft?
Yes, if bone volume is sufficient.
Does bone graft always delay implant?
Not always. Minor grafting can be done simultaneously.
Is bone graft safe?
Yes, when done under sterile and controlled conditions.
Can smokers get bone graft?
Yes, but healing risk is higher.
Does bone grow naturally back?
Not fully. Once lost significantly, grafting may be required.
Final Thoughts
Bone grafting is not a complication.
It is a protective step.
At Cayo Dental, approximately 20% of implant patients require bone support procedures — identified through 3D evaluation before surgery.
Proper planning, adequate healing time (3–6 months), and structured follow-up protocols ensure long-term stability.
In implant dentistry:
Strong foundation = long-term success