Bone Graft Applications
What Is a Bone Graft?
A bone graft is a surgical procedure that aims to increase bone tissue in areas where alveolar bone volume is insufficient. It may be considered for different indications such as implant planning, socket preservation after extraction or reconstruction after trauma. Grafting is not mandatory in every implant case; bone adequacy is determined by examination and imaging.
Sinus lifting is a different procedure from a bone graft; a graft aims to increase general bone volume. The two procedures may be planned together in some cases but are not described as the same procedure. Graft material selection is made according to defect size and patient factors.
Graft Types and Selection
Autograft (the patient’s own bone), allograft, xenograft and synthetic materials are selected according to the case. Defect size, location and healing expectation affect the material decision. A graft alone does not replace an implant; the implant stage is planned after bone maturation. Examination and imaging determine the graft indication.
Allograft or xenograft may be sufficient in small defects; autograft may be considered in large defects. Graft material selection is shared with the patient. Socket preservation after extraction is one form of graft use and may be considered even before the implant plan is final.
Surgical Application
The graft is placed in the defect area and may be covered with a membrane. It is performed under local anaesthesia or sedation. Flap design and suturing are important for graft stability. Biological modifiers such as PRF may be used in some protocols.
Procedure duration depends on defect size. After grafting, the implant plan proceeds at a separate visit once bone maturation is complete; early loading is not possible in every case. Panoramic imaging or CBCT may be used for bone assessment before grafting. Flap closure and suturing technique are critical for graft stability; membrane use provides defect coverage in some protocols.
Healing and Expectations
Swelling and sensitivity may occur in the first weeks; smoking and hard foods may be restricted. Bone remodelling may take months; early implant loading is not possible in every case. Graft resorption, infection or membrane dehiscence may rarely occur.
Bone volume gain depends on individual response; an absolute volume guarantee is not given. Control imaging may be used to monitor bone maturation; revision is assessed if grafting fails. Avoiding pressure from hard foods on the graft area may be recommended in the first weeks. Antibiotic prophylaxis is considered only for specific indications; smoking may negatively affect graft success.