Not all patients need a bone graft before getting a dental implant. If your jawbone is strong and dense enough to support an implant, you may be able to skip this step. However, if you have bone loss, a graft might be necessary for a successful and long-lasting implant.
When Is a Bone Graft NOT Needed?
🦷 Sufficient Bone Density – Your jawbone is strong enough to hold the implant securely.
🦷 Early Implant Placement – If you get an implant soon after tooth loss, bone loss is minimal.
🦷 Zygomatic or Short Implants – Special implants can be used in some cases to avoid grafting.
When Is a Bone Graft REQUIRED?
🔹 Severe Bone Loss – If the jawbone has deteriorated, it won’t support an implant.
🔹 Sinus Proximity – In the upper jaw, a sinus lift may be needed to create space.
🔹 Long-Term Tooth Loss – Over time, missing teeth cause the bone to shrink.
Alternative Options for Patients with Bone Loss
✔ Zygomatic Implants – Anchored in the cheekbone for severe upper jaw bone loss.
✔ Short & Wide Implants – Require less bone height for placement.
✔ Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) – A specialized technique to encourage natural bone growth.
FAQs
❓ Can I still get implants if I have some bone loss?
🗸 Yes! Your dentist will assess if alternative implant options are possible.
❓ How do I know if I need a bone graft?
🗸 A 3D scan (CBCT) will show whether your bone is dense enough for an implant.❓ Are there risks to skipping a bone graft?
🗸 Yes, if the bone is too weak, the implant may fail over time.