Dental Implants in Sarasota, FL
Bone Grafting for Implants
When the jaw has lost bone, a graft rebuilds the site so a dental implant can be placed securely. Thanks to modern techniques, it’s a routine, predictable and comfortable procedure.
The Basics
Do I have enough bone for dental implants?
Bone loss in the jaw is common in people who have had gum disease, lost teeth, suffered facial trauma or worn ill-fitting dentures — often leaving too little healthy bone to support a dental implant. Even with a single missing tooth, 40–60% of the supporting bone can be lost in the first year alone.
In the past, these patients could not have implants. Today we can restore bone where it is needed, allowing us to place implants of the ideal size and to rebuild both function and appearance. While bone grafting may sound extreme, modern techniques and materials make grafting in the mouth a routine, predictable and virtually painless procedure.
The Process
How bone grafting works
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1. Inadequate bone
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2. Graft material placed
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3. Implant placed
The surgeons at Sarasota Oral & Implant Surgery have completed extensive training in bone reconstruction and use every available surgical technique. These include autologous bone (from the patient), allogeneic bone (sterile bone from another source) and BMP-2 (a protein that stimulates new bone growth). We also use technology that concentrates platelets and growth factors from a small blood draw. Your surgeon will identify and discuss the approach best suited to your goals.
Sinus Grafting
When the upper jaw needs more bone
You may also need grafting if the sinus cavities in your upper jaw are large or sit low, extending into the tooth-bearing area — common when back upper teeth were removed years ago. A sinus grafting procedure gently lifts the sinus membrane and adds bone to restore height, so implants of adequate length can be placed. It can often be done at the same time as implant placement.
Why Choose Us
Why choose Sarasota Oral & Implant Surgery?
Our oral and maxillofacial surgeons bring both medical and dental training to every procedure, so you get expert diagnosis and comfortable, precise care from consultation to recovery.
- Dual-degree surgeons (DMD and MD) with advanced anesthesia training
- Board-certified Diplomates of the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
- Decades of experience across thousands of successful cases
- 3D imaging and modern technology for precise, predictable results
- A full range of sedation and comfort options
- Convenient locations across the Sarasota area
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bone grafting painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia or sedation, so you should not feel pain during treatment. Most patients experience only mild soreness afterward, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does a bone graft take to heal?
Healing varies with the size of the graft, but the bone typically takes a few months to mature enough to support an implant. In some cases a graft can be placed at the same time as the implant.
Do I always need a bone graft before an implant?
No. Many patients have enough healthy bone for an implant without grafting. Your surgeon will use 3D imaging to determine whether a graft is needed at your consultation.
