What Is Periodontal Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting in periodontics is used to regenerate bone that has been lost due to periodontal disease, trauma, or tooth extraction. The jawbone depends on the stimulation it receives from tooth roots to maintain its density and volume. When that stimulation is lost, the bone begins to resorb, compromising the stability of the remaining teeth and the viability of future implant placement. Bone grafting restores the lost structure and creates the foundation necessary for both natural tooth preservation and prosthetic replacement.
Periodontal Bone Grafting: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | 1 procedure, plus follow-up |
| Time needed | 60 to 90 minutes |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia, with sedation available |
| Recovery time | About one week of soft diet; bone matures over several months |
| How long it lasts | Long term with good gum maintenance |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
When Periodontal Bone Grafting Is Recommended
Gum disease destroys the bone around teeth in an uneven pattern. Where it has left a crater or a vertical defect, grafting can encourage new bone to grow and reduce the pocket.
- Deep pockets with vertical bone defects on X-rays
- Bone loss between the roots of a molar
- A tooth with reduced support that can still be saved
- Bone loss found during pocket reduction surgery
- A site being prepared for a future implant
Periodontal Bone Grafting at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, periodontal bone grafting is performed by Dr. Geoffrey Rubinshtein, whose expertise in hard tissue regeneration is central to his periodontal and implant practice. The procedure involves placing biocompatible grafting material into the area of bone loss, where it serves as a scaffold that encourages the body to produce new bone. Depending on the case, Dr. Geoffrey may use the patient鈥檚 own bone, donor tissue, or synthetic materials. In many periodontal cases, grafting is combined with guided tissue regeneration techniques that use a barrier membrane to direct bone growth specifically where it is needed.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Imaging. X-rays or 3D imaging show the shape of the defect.
- Access. The gum is gently lifted under local anesthesia.
- Cleaning. The roots and the defect are thoroughly cleaned.
- Graft. Graft material is placed, often covered with a membrane.
- Closure. The gum is stitched and healing is monitored for several months.
Bone graft materials
| Material | Source | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Autograft | Your own bone | Contains living cells; needs a second site |
| Allograft | Processed human donor bone | Widely used; no second site |
| Xenograft | Processed animal bone | Slow to resorb; holds space well |
| Alloplast | Synthetic | No donor tissue |
A graft is a framework. Your own bone grows into it over months and gradually takes its place.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your visit
The first 24 hours
- Bite on gauze as directed
- Use cold packs
- Do not disturb the site with your tongue or fingers
The following days and weeks
- Avoid chewing on the area for several weeks
- Use the prescribed rinse
- Attend follow-up X-rays
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- Many granules of graft material come out
- A membrane becomes visible
- Pain, swelling or pus develops
How Bone Grafting Fits with Other Procedures
Bone grafting is commonly performed alongside pocket reduction surgery to rebuild bone destroyed by advanced periodontal disease. It is also essential in ridge preservation to maintain jaw volume after extraction and in implant site preparation to ensure adequate bone for implant placement. Dr. Geoffrey evaluates the extent of bone loss through clinical examination and advanced imaging before recommending the most appropriate grafting approach for each patient.
Cost and Insurance
The fee for periodontal treatment depends on how much of the mouth is affected and on whether surgery or grafting is needed. You receive a written estimate after your gum evaluation.
What affects the cost
- The number of teeth or areas treated
- Whether treatment is non-surgical or surgical
- Graft materials and membranes, where used
- Sedation, if you choose it
Many dental plans contribute to gum disease treatment and maintenance. Benefits are often set per quarter of the mouth. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
