Bone grafting rebuilds the jawbone so it's strong enough to hold a dental implant or other restoration. It's a common procedure, and it's often the step that makes an implant possible for patients who were told they didn't have enough bone. We offer bone grafting at our Magnolia, Copperfield Houston and Cinco Ranch offices as part of our oral surgery services.
Dental Bone Grafting in Magnolia and the Houston Area
An implant needs enough healthy bone around it to stay secure. When a tooth is lost or removed, the bone that held it no longer gets used, and over time it can shrink. Gum disease and injuries can also wear bone away. If there isn't enough bone where the implant needs to go, a graft builds it back up first.
You may need a bone graft if:
- You're planning a dental implant and the bone in that area is too thin or too short
- A tooth has been missing for some time
- You're having a tooth removed and want to keep the option of an implant later
- Gum disease has caused bone loss around your teeth
Where the Graft Material Comes From
- Your own bone: small fragments can be collected from another area of your mouth, often during the same procedure, and used for the graft.
- Donor bone: bone from a tissue bank, which is carefully screened and processed. It's a safe, well-established source and means no second site is needed.
We'll explain which option suits your treatment before we begin.
What to Expect
- Exam and X-rays: we check how much bone you have and where it's needed, and talk through your implant or restoration plan.
- Placing the graft: the area is numbed, the graft material is placed where bone is missing, and the gum is closed over it.
- Healing: over the following months, your body grows new bone into the graft.
- Next step: once the area has healed, we confirm the bone is ready for your implant or restoration.
In some cases, a graft can be placed at the same visit as a tooth extraction or an implant. We'll tell you if that's an option for you.
Recovery and Aftercare
Some swelling and soreness for a few days is normal. Follow the instructions we give you, which usually include:
- Eating soft foods and chewing on the other side for the first few days
- Avoiding smoking and drinking through a straw while the area heals
- Keeping the area clean as directed, without brushing hard over the graft
- Coming back for your follow-up visits so we can check healing
Call the office if you have bleeding that won't stop, swelling that gets worse after a few days, or a fever.
Bone Grafting and Dental Implants
Most of our bone grafts are done to prepare for dental implants or implant-supported dentures. Building up the bone first gives the implant a solid foundation. If you're not ready for an implant, there are other ways to replace missing teeth, such as a dental bridge or a partial denture.
Cost, Insurance and Payment Options
The cost of a bone graft depends on how much bone is needed and where, so we'll give you a clear estimate after your exam. Some dental plans cover part of the cost. We work with most insurance providers and will check your benefits for you. We accept CareCredit and offer payment plans. See our financing page and insurance information.
Bone Grafting Near You
- Magnolia: 18252 FM 1488 #120, Magnolia, TX 77354
- Copperfield Houston: 17301-A FM 529, Houston, TX 77095
- Cinco Ranch: 20680 Westheimer Pkwy Ste 50, Katy, TX 77450
We have seven offices across the Houston area. Find the location nearest you.
Frequently Asked Questions — Bone Grafting
Does a bone graft hurt?
The area is numbed during the procedure, so most patients feel pressure rather than pain. Mild soreness and swelling for a few days afterward is normal.
How long does it take to heal?
New bone grows into the graft over several months. The exact time depends on the size of the graft and how your body heals, and we'll check your progress at follow-up visits.
Can I get an implant without a bone graft?
Yes, if you already have enough healthy bone. Your exam and X-rays will show whether a graft is needed.
Is donor bone safe?
Yes. Donor bone comes from tissue banks that screen and process it carefully. It has been used in dentistry for many years.
Should I get a graft when a tooth is removed?
If you may want an implant later, placing a graft when the tooth comes out can help preserve the bone. We'll talk through this before your extraction.
Book a bone grafting consultation at our Magnolia office or any of our Houston-area offices.
