Bone Grafting for Dental Implants in Glendale & La Crescenta, CA
If you have been told there is not enough bone for a dental implant, that does not automatically mean implants are no longer an option.
Dr. Robert Thein evaluates bone volume, anatomy and the intended final restoration before recommending grafting.
A Dental Implant Needs the Right Foundation
Dental implants depend on adequate supporting bone. When the desired implant position does not have enough bone, grafting may be considered to rebuild the site and support more appropriate implant placement.
Tooth Loss
Bone can shrink after a tooth is removed or has been missing for an extended period.
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease can damage the bone that previously supported natural teeth.
Previous Infection or Trauma
Infection, failed dentistry or injury can leave an implant site with reduced bone volume.
The Goal Is Not Simply to “Add Bone”
Because Dr. Thein performs both the surgical and restorative phases of implant treatment, grafting can be planned around where the final tooth needs to be supported—not merely around where bone happens to be available.
Planning can consider:
- Width and height of the existing ridge
- Desired implant position and angulation
- Sinus and nerve anatomy
- Gum tissue and aesthetic requirements
- Timing of grafting relative to implant placement
- Final crown, bridge or full-arch restoration
See the Bone Before Deciding What the Site Requires
Three-dimensional CT imaging can help evaluate available bone and surrounding anatomy before recommending grafting. It also helps clarify whether the implant and graft may be performed together or in separate stages.
Bone Augmentation Is Not One Single Procedure
Localized Bone Grafting
Used when a specific implant site requires additional bone support.
Ridge Augmentation
May be considered when the jaw ridge lacks adequate width or height for the planned implant.
Sinus-Related Augmentation
Upper back-tooth implant sites may require additional planning when the sinus limits available bone height.
Can the Bone Graft and Implant Be Done Together?
Sometimes. The answer depends on the amount of bone present, the size of the defect, implant stability and the treatment plan. Other cases benefit from graft healing before implant placement.
What If You Were Told You Need Extensive Grafting?
A CT-based second opinion can help clarify available bone, proposed implant position, grafting requirements and whether another treatment sequence may be appropriate.
Bone Grafting FAQs
How long does a dental bone graft take to heal?
Healing varies with the size and location of the graft, the material used, whether implant placement is simultaneous, and individual healing.
Is bone grafting always required before implants?
No. Grafting is considered when the available bone does not adequately support the planned implant position.
What is ridge augmentation?
Ridge augmentation is bone augmentation used to rebuild a deficient section of the jaw when width or height is inadequate for the planned implant.
Can I need grafting after a failed implant?
Yes, depending on why the implant failed and how much bone remains. The cause of failure should be evaluated before planning replacement treatment.
Can I get a second opinion about a bone graft?
Yes. A CT-based evaluation can help clarify your anatomy and whether the proposed grafting approach aligns with the implant and restorative plan.
Request a Bone Grafting & Implant Consultation
Serving Glendale, La Crescenta, Montrose, Pasadena, Burbank, La Cañada, Sunland, Tujunga, Eagle Rock and nearby communities.