Dental Bone Grafting in Newport, NH

Why does bone change after a tooth is removed?

The bone that supported a tooth begins to change after the tooth is lost.

Over time, the ridge can become narrower or develop a visible or noticeable depression where the tooth used to be.

If you are considering a dental implant, planning before the tooth is removed can sometimes make future treatment easier.

Bone grafting at the time of an extraction

A bone graft can sometimes be placed immediately after a tooth is removed.

This is often called socket preservation.

The graft helps preserve the shape and volume of the area while it heals and may reduce the amount of additional grafting needed before a future implant.

Not every extraction needs a bone graft. We recommend it when preserving or rebuilding bone is useful for the treatment you are planning.

What if the tooth has been missing for a long time?

Bone may already be narrower or shorter if a tooth has been missing for months or years.

Bone can potentially be added or rebuilt before or during implant treatment.

Advanced imaging and digital planning may be used to evaluate the available treatment options.

What is a sinus graft or sinus lift?

The roots of the upper back teeth are located near the maxillary sinus.

After those teeth are lost, there may not be enough vertical bone below the sinus for a dental implant.

A sinus graft can add bone in this area to create more support for implant placement.

Some sinus grafts can be performed when the implant is placed. Other cases need a separate healing period first.

How long does a bone graft take to heal?

Bone grafts need time to heal and remodel before they are ready for the next stage of treatment.

Healing time varies depending on the size and location of the graft, the procedure performed, your health, and whether an implant was placed at the same time.

We will explain the expected timeline for your specific treatment.

Smoking, vaping, and graft healing

Smoking and nicotine use can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.

Tell us about smoking, vaping, medications, diabetes, and other health conditions before treatment so they can be considered when planning your procedure.

Will every bone graft lead to an implant?

No treatment can guarantee that an implant will ultimately be possible.

Bone grafting is used to improve or preserve the foundation for planned treatment, but healing and anatomy still need to be evaluated afterward.

Planning for a future dental implant?

If a tooth needs to be removed and you are considering an implant, talk with us before the extraction when possible. Planning the extraction, grafting, implant, and final tooth together can simplify the overall treatment process.