A strong, healthy jawbone is essential for successful dental implants and long-term oral health. When bone loss occurs due to missing teeth, gum disease, or injury, bone grafting becomes an important step in rebuilding the foundation your smile depends on. At Jonathan Hunt DDS, we provide precise, comfortable bone grafting procedures to help patients restore lost bone volume and prepare for implant placement with confidence.
Using advanced technology and high-quality materials, Dr. Jonathan Hunt ensures predictable results and a positive experience for every patient. Our practice proudly serves individuals throughout High Point, NC, and surrounding communities with customized care tailored to your needs. Whether you are preparing for implants or restoring bone health for future treatment, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Why Bone Grafting Is Needed For Implants
When a tooth is missing, the jawbone in that area no longer receives stimulation from chewing. Over time, the bone begins to shrink—a process called resorption. This can weaken the jaw and make it difficult or impossible to support a dental implant. Bone grafting rebuilds and strengthens the area by adding bone material, allowing the jaw to properly anchor an implant. You may need bone grafting if you:
- Tooth loss: Lost a tooth several months or years ago.
- Gum disease: Have advanced periodontal disease.
- Trauma: Experienced injury or infection affecting the jawbone.
- Thin bone: Have naturally thin or weak bone structure.
- Implant preparation: Want the most stable and long-lasting implant results.
By restoring lost bone, we create a strong foundation for successful implant placement and improved oral function.
Types Of Bone Grafts & Materials Used
Bone grafting is highly customizable, and several types of graft materials may be used depending on your needs. At our practice, we offer the following options:
Bone is taken from another area of your body, such as the jaw or chin. This option integrates quickly and naturally.
Human donor bone that has been carefully processed and sterilized. This common, effective choice avoids the need for a second surgical site.
Bone sourced from bovine or porcine origin and processed for biocompatibility. This supports excellent bone regeneration.
Man-made materials designed to mimic natural bone and stimulate new bone growth.
Dr. Hunt will recommend the best material based on your oral health, goals, and implant needs.
Step-By-Step Bone Grafting Procedure
Knowing what to expect helps make the experience comfortable and stress-free. Here is what typically happens during a bone grafting appointment:
- Evaluation and imaging: Digital x-rays or CBCT scans measure bone volume and determine grafting needs.
- Anesthesia: The area is numbed thoroughly; sedation is available for added comfort.
- Preparation: A small incision is made in the gum to access the bone.
- Placing the graft: The grafting material is positioned in the area lacking bone.
- Stabilizing the graft: A membrane or protective layer may be used to secure the graft.
- Closing the site: The gum tissue is gently sutured to protect the area during healing.
The procedure is typically quick, minimally invasive, and performed in our office.
Healing Time & What To Expect
Healing time varies depending on the graft’s size and location, but most patients experience initial recovery within one to two weeks. Minor swelling, soreness, or tenderness is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter medications.
Over the next several months, the graft fuses with your natural bone in a process called osseointegration. Full healing may take three to six months, after which dental implant placement can safely occur. To support proper healing, we recommend:
- Chewing caution: Avoid chewing directly on the grafted area.
- Oral hygiene: Practice good hygiene while being gentle around the site.
- Soft foods: Eat soft foods for several days.
- No smoking: Avoid smoking, which significantly delays healing.
- Follow-ups: Attend all follow-up appointments for monitoring.
Our team will track your progress closely to ensure successful integration.
Risks, Benefits, & Long-Term Outcomes
Bone grafting is a very safe and routine procedure, but like any surgery, it carries some risks, such as infection, swelling, or rare graft rejection. Dr. Hunt takes every precaution to minimize risks by using high-quality materials and precise techniques. The benefits of bone grafting are significant and long-lasting:
- Strong implant support: Creates a stable foundation for implants.
- Facial structure: Helps maintain natural facial contours.
- Bone preservation: Prevents further bone loss.
- Improved function: Enhances chewing and oral stability.
- Predictable outcomes: Supports long-term oral health and treatment success.
With proper care, bone grafts provide a durable foundation for implants that can last decades.
Strengthen Your Foundation With Bone Grafting At Jonathan Hunt DDS
If you have been told you lack enough bone for dental implants—or if you want the most predictable, long-term solution for restoring missing teeth—bone grafting may be the key to achieving your ideal smile. At Jonathan Hunt DDS, we combine advanced diagnostic technology, gentle techniques, and personalized care to ensure a successful outcome.
Our High Point, NC team is here to help you rebuild your foundation with confidence. Schedule your consultation today and take the next step toward a stronger, healthier, and beautifully restored smile.