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Bone Grafting
Dental Bone Grafting 101
Bone grafting is the act of replacing or strengthening bone in the mouth. At Central Ohio Periodontics, the doctors may recommend a bone grafting procedure when a patient has bone loss in the jawbone caused by missing teeth. Without teeth, the jawbone will begin to lose its shape and deteriorate. Over time, the jawbone reaches a point where there is not enough bone to place a dental implant until the bone is strengthened or reinforced.
There are three types of bone graft procedures: allograft, xenograft, and autogenous.
- Allografts involve the use of human bone. However, allografts usually use bone from cadavers which have been donated to bone banks. All allograft bone material is carefully screened and is determined to be very safe.
- Xenografts replace bone in the area requiring treatment, but the bone comes from a non-human source. In this case, the bone source is usually bovine, or from a cow.
- Autogenous grafts involve taking bone from a separate area of the patient’s body and transplanting it to the area of the jawbone that requires restoration.
Bone Grafting Procedure at Central Ohio Periodontics
The doctor will use local anesthesia to numb the area where the bone graft is needed. An incision will be made to the gums. The new bone will be placed in the jawbone and the site will be closed with stitches.
After surgery, you will be given antibiotics and other medication and will be asked to follow a restricted soft food diet. The dental implant will not be able to be placed until your mouth has fully healed, which is typically about three to nine months.
If you are interested in learning more about Bone Grafting, contact us today at 614-350-0165 or office@centralohioperiodontics.com. We welcome you to our office and encourage you to schedule your appointment today!
Bone Grafting FAQs
At Central Ohio Periodontics in Blacklick, bone grafting plays a key role in restoring oral health when bone loss has occurred due to periodontal disease or other causes. Whether you’re preparing for a dental implant or addressing bone loss, understanding what to expect can help you feel more confident about the process. Below are answers to common questions we hear about bone grafting.
When is a bone graft necessary in dentistry?
A bone graft is recommended when the jawbone lacks sufficient height or width to support restorative treatments such as dental implants or when periodontal disease has weakened the bone that supports your teeth. Grafting encourages new bone growth, helps stabilize adjacent teeth, and creates a strong foundation for future procedures.
How long does it take to heal after bone grafting?
Healing happens in stages. The initial soft-tissue recovery — when swelling and discomfort improve — generally takes about 1 to 2 weeks. However, the deeper healing and integration of the grafted material with your natural bone typically takes 3–6 months or longer, depending on graft size and individual healing.
What's the recovery like?
During the first week after surgery, most people experience mild swelling, tenderness, and possibly some bruising around the surgical site, which is normal. Keeping the area clean, using ice packs as recommended, and following our after-care instructions can help you feel comfortable. Full bone regeneration is a gradual process beneath the surface.
What should I avoid after a bone graft is placed?
To support healing, avoid smoking or tobacco use, drinking alcohol, and vigorous rinsing or spitting. Stick with soft foods for the first few days and avoid strenuous activity for 48–72 hours after the procedure. These precautions reduce the risk of disturbing the surgical site and help bone healing progress smoothly.
How often do bone grafts fail?
Bone grafting has a high success rate when placed by experienced specialists and when you follow post-operative care instructions. Failure is uncommon but can occur due to infection, poor oral hygiene, smoking, or medical conditions that affect healing. Any unusual pain, persistent swelling, or signs of infection should prompt a call to our office.
How long do I need to wait after a bone graft to have my next phase of treatment?
Most patients wait about 3–6 months after a bone graft before moving forward with dental implant placement or other restorative work. This gives your new bone time to mature and provide adequate support. Larger grafts or slower healing responses may require a longer wait, which your periodontist will determine based on your progress.
At Central Ohio Periodontics, we tailor every treatment plan to your needs and comfort. If you’re considering bone grafting or want to learn more about your options, call 614-575-0070 to schedule a consultation with our team.
