What is Dental Bone Graft Surgery?

A dental bone graft replaces missing or lost bone in patient’s jaw. Oral surgeons, dentists/implantologists commonly place bone grafts prior to dental implant surgery to maximize the esthetic outcome, functionality and long term success of dental implant treatment.

1. How is bone graft surgery?

Dental bone graft surgery is a procedure in which missing or deteriorated bone in a patient’s jaw is replaced with graft material to rebuild the bone structure. This is typically performed by oral surgeons or dentists/implantologists. The main goal of the surgery is to support future dental implant placement by:

• Restoring lost bone volume due to tooth loss, trauma, or gum disease

• Improving esthetics, especially in visible areas of the mouth

• Ensuring long-term stability and functionality of dental implants

The process usually involves placing bone graft material—like Vitality Bone into the area of bone loss. After placement, the area may be covered with a collagen plug or tape to stabilize the graft particles and protect the site during healing.

2. What is socket preservation bone graft?

Socket preservation is a specific type of bone graft performed immediately after tooth extraction to prevent the loss of bone volume in the socket (the hole left in the jawbone). After a tooth is removed, the jawbone can begin to resorb or shrink, which may compromise future implant placement.

To prevent this, clinicians:

• Place a bone graft material like Vitality Bone into the extraction socket

• Cover the site with a collagen plug or tape to help contain the particles and encourage healing

• Allow the area to heal over several months, during which the bone graft integrates with the natural bone

Socket preservation maintains the natural contour of the jaw and ensures a stable foundation for future dental implants or bridges.

3. What is extraction socket grafting?

Extraction socket grafting is essentially another term for socket preservation, but it may be used more broadly to refer to any bone grafting performed after tooth extraction, regardless of timing or intended future treatment.

It involves:

• Cleaning the socket after tooth removal

• Placing graft material like Vitality Bone into the socket

• Covering the site with a collagen-based membrane or plug

• Allowing healing to occur with the goal of promoting new bone growth

This technique helps preserve bone height and width, reduces ridge shrinkage, and prepares the site for a more predictable and successful implant placement down the line.