Types of Bone Grafting Materials

All graft materials are carefully processed to ensure safety and compatibility with your body. Bone grafting techniques are categorized based on the source of the graft:

• Autograft: The bone used is harvested from another area of your own body. This procedure requires two surgical sites—one to collect the bone and one to place it. Autografts are commonly performed and are valued for their high success rate.
• Allograft: In this method, bone fragments are obtained from a tissue bank, typically from a human donor. The material is thoroughly cleaned and processed in a laboratory to ensure it is safe for use.
• Xenograft: Here, the bone graft material comes from an animal source, often bovine (cow) bone. Like allografts, xenografts are processed and sterilized to make them safe for human use.
• Alloplast: This type uses synthetic, man-made materials, such as bio-compatible minerals. These grafts are often combined with other agents and are available in various forms like powders, granules, putty, or gel and applied to the surgical site.

What to Expect During Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is considered a minor surgical procedure and typically takes place in a single appointment. Our team begins by numbing the area with a local anesthetic for your comfort. Small incisions are made in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone.

After cleaning the site as needed, the selected graft material is placed where bone loss has occurred. The graft acts as a scaffold, encouraging your body to generate new bone over time. In some cases, an organic barrier membrane is positioned to guide bone growth and prevent soft tissue from interfering with the regeneration process.

Recovery After Bone Grafting

Following your bone graft procedure, you may experience mild soreness, swelling, or slight bruising—these are normal side effects that subside as healing progresses. Minor bleeding can also occur initially but typically resolves quickly.

Full integration of the new bone with your natural bone usually takes about seven to nine months. During this healing period, we recommend sticking to soft foods and avoiding anything too hard or chewy to promote optimal recovery.

Learn More About Our South Jersey Bone Grafting

If you have been advised that you are not a candidate for dental implants due to insufficient jawbone, our bone grafting services can help rebuild your bone to the level required for successful implant placement. Restoring your bone structure can open the door to the dental implants you need to regain your healthy, confident smile. Contact our office today to learn about your options and schedule a consultation with our bone grafting specialist.