Bone Grafting in South Philadelphia

When teeth are lost or extracted, the jawbone that once supported them begins to resorb — sometimes rapidly. For patients who want to replace missing teeth with dental implants, adequate bone volume is essential. Bone grafting is the solution: a procedure that adds bone material to areas where it has been lost, rebuilding the foundation needed for successful implant placement.

At Pera Dentistry & Aesthetics, we perform bone grafting procedures as part of a comprehensive implant treatment plan. Using state-of-the-art 3D scanning technology, we assess your bone density and anatomy with precision — allowing us to plan grafting procedures that maximize your implant outcomes.

Why Bone Grafting Is Sometimes Necessary

Bone loss in the jaw occurs for several reasons:

Missing teeth: when a tooth root is no longer present to stimulate the bone, resorption begins within weeks of tooth loss
Advanced gum disease: periodontal disease destroys the bone supporting the teeth
Tooth extractions: particularly when the socket is not preserved at the time of removal
Trauma or injury to the jaw
Developmental conditions: that affect jaw bone volume

Even patients who lost teeth years ago may still qualify for implants after appropriate bone grafting — it’s worth discussing your options regardless of how long ago you lost the tooth.

Types of Bone Grafts

Socket Preservation Grafts

Placed at the time of tooth extraction, socket preservation grafts maintain the bone volume of the extraction site while it heals. This is the most common type of graft we perform and the most straightforward — it’s far simpler to preserve bone at the time of extraction than to rebuild it later.

Ridge Augmentation Grafts

When bone has already been lost and the ridge has become too narrow or short to support implants, a ridge augmentation graft rebuilds the area. This procedure requires more significant healing time before implant placement can proceed.

Bone Graft Materials

Bone grafts can be sourced from different materials depending on the clinical situation. We’ll discuss the most appropriate option for your case:

Autograft: Bone taken from another site in your own body — the gold standard for grafting
Allograft: Donor bone from a human bone bank, processed and sterilized
Xenograft: Bovine-derived bone mineral that provides a scaffold for new bone growth
Synthetic bone substitutes: Biocompatible materials that promote bone formation

The Healing Process

After a bone graft, new bone grows into the graft material over a period of four to nine months, replacing it gradually with your own bone. Once the graft has matured, we reassess with updated imaging to confirm readiness for implant placement. We schedule follow-up appointments throughout the healing period to monitor your progress.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Bone Grafting

Does bone grafting hurt?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should experience no pain during the graft. Afterward, you can expect soreness, swelling, and possible bruising for several days, which are well-managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses. Most patients find the recovery more manageable than anticipated.

How long does healing take before I can get an implant?

Healing time varies based on the size and type of graft. Socket preservation grafts typically heal in four to six months. Larger ridge augmentation grafts may require six to nine months or more before the bone is ready for implant placement. We’ll take updated 3D scans at your follow-up appointments to confirm when you’re ready to proceed.

Is bone grafting always necessary for dental implants?

Not always. Some patients have adequate bone density and volume without any grafting. Others — particularly those who have had missing teeth for an extended period — may need grafting first. The only way to know for certain is through a thorough evaluation including 3D imaging. We’ll give you an honest assessment at your implant consultation.

Can I graft bone even if my tooth has been missing for years?

Yes, in many cases. Significant bone loss can make grafting more complex, but it doesn’t automatically rule out implants. We’ve helped many patients rebuild bone after long-standing tooth loss and go on to receive successful implants. The best way to find out what’s possible in your situation is to come in for an evaluation.

Is bone grafting safe?

Bone grafting has a strong safety record and is routinely performed in dental practices. Donor bone materials are carefully processed and sterilized to eliminate any risk of disease transmission. Rejection of the graft material is rare. We’ll review your complete health history before recommending grafting to ensure you’re a suitable candidate.

Ready to restore your smile?

Located at 1627 S Broad St, South Philadelphia. Coming soon to Haddonfield, NJ. Schedule a consultation to find out if bone grafting can make implants possible for you.