Periodontal disease, trauma, infection or premature loss of teeth can greatly reduce bone density. A bone graft is a procedure that may become necessary when there is not adequate bone to support a dental implant, tooth, removable partial or denture.

Missing bone is typically replaced with bone from the patient’s body, or artificial or synthetic bone. Once the graft is obtained, screws are used to secure it in place. To protect the area and encourage proper bone growth, a membrane may be used to cover the site. Over time natural bone will form between the graft and existing bone, strengthening the area.