Dental implants are widely regarded as the best solution for replacing missing teeth, offering strength, functionality, and a natural appearance. However, not every patient has sufficient jawbone structure to support an implant immediately. In many cases, a lack of bone density can delay or prevent the placement of implants. To overcome this challenge, dental professionals often recommend procedures like bone grafting or sinus lifts to rebuild the necessary support.

Understanding when and why these procedures are required is key if you are considering dental implants. Below, we will walk you through what these procedures involve, when they are needed, and how they help restore oral health.

Understanding Dental Bone Grafts

A dental bone graft is a procedure used to rebuild or strengthen bone in the jaw. It involves placing new bone material—either natural or synthetic—into areas where the bone has deteriorated. The graft stimulates new bone growth, creating a solid foundation for dental implants.

When a tooth is missing for a long time, the surrounding bone starts to shrink due to lack of stimulation. This process, known as bone resorption, is a natural phenomenon but can complicate future treatments. A bone graft reverses this loss, helping to maintain both the shape of your jaw and your eligibility for implants.

Common Causes of Jawbone Loss

Bone loss in the jaw doesn’t happen overnight, but several factors can contribute to it over time:

• Missing teeth: When a tooth root is gone, the jawbone loses stimulation and begins to shrink.
• Gum disease: Advanced periodontal infections can destroy bone tissue beneath the gums.
• Facial trauma: Injuries to the mouth or jaw can damage bone and lead to long-term complications.
• Oral infections: Ongoing infections can weaken and dissolve bone tissue.
• Traditional dentures: Dentures that don’t integrate with the bone may allow the jaw to lose volume over time.

Regardless of the cause, a bone graft is often the first step in rebuilding a strong jaw structure for future implants.

What Is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift, or sinus augmentation, is a specialized surgical procedure designed for patients who need implants in the upper jaw—particularly in the area of the molars or premolars. It involves gently lifting the sinus membrane and placing bone graft material beneath it, which increases the height of the upper jawbone.

This technique is often required because the sinuses, located just above the upper back teeth, can sit too close to the jaw to allow for secure implant placement. A sinus lift creates enough space for bone development, allowing the future implant to be placed safely and securely.

When Are These Procedures Necessary?

1. Lack of Sufficient Bone

The most common reason for a bone graft or sinus lift is a lack of adequate bone density or volume in the jaw. Digital imaging, such as X-rays or 3D scans, enables your dentist to determine whether your bone is strong enough to support dental implants.

2. Long-Term Tooth Loss

The longer a tooth is missing, the more likely the surrounding bone will have deteriorated. In such cases, rebuilding the bone is necessary before an implant can be placed.

3. Low Sinus Position in the Upper Jaw

When upper molars are missing, the maxillary sinus may expand into the space previously occupied by bone. A sinus lift repositions the membrane and adds bone to restore implant viability.

4. Bone Loss from Gum Disease or Injury

Serious gum infections or physical trauma can damage the bone, making grafting essential before restorative work like implants.

Types of Bone Graft Materials

The type of bone used in grafting depends on your unique case and health condition. Common options include:

• Autografts: Bone taken from your own body (usually the chin or hip), offering high compatibility.
• Allografts: Donated human bone, processed and sterilized for safe use.
• Xenografts: Bone from an animal source, commonly bovine, prepared for medical use.
• Alloplasts: Synthetic materials that mimic the structure of natural bone.

Each material has benefits and is selected based on the extent of the bone loss and your overall treatment plan.

The Bone Grafting Procedure Explained

Here is what typically happens during a bone graft procedure:

Initial Evaluation

A detailed assessment, including digital scans, enables the dentist to determine the extent and location of bone loss.

Surgical Placement

The treatment area is numbed, and the graft material is placed at the site of deficiency. A protective membrane may be used to secure the graft in place before the site is closed with sutures.

Healing and Integration

Over the next 3 to 6 months, the new bone material integrates with your natural bone through a process called osseointegration. Once healed, your jaw is ready for the placement of an implant.

How a Sinus Lift Is Performed

The sinus lift procedure follows a specific process:

Accessing the Area

An incision is made in the gum tissue to reach the bone near the sinus cavity.

Lifting the Sinus Membrane

Your surgeon carefully raises the sinus lining to make space for the graft.

Inserting Bone Material

Bone is packed into the newly created space beneath the lifted membrane. The site is then closed, and healing begins.

Recovery Timeline

Healing after a sinus lift can take anywhere from 4 to 9 months, depending on the volume of bone added and individual healing factors.

Who Should Consider Bone Grafts or Sinus Lifts?

You may be a good candidate for these procedures if you:

• Have been missing teeth for an extended period
• Suffer from bone loss due to gum disease or infection
• Have had a facial injury that damaged the jawbone
• Want implants but were told your bone is insufficient
• Are seeking implants in the upper back jaw where the sinus is located

Non-smokers and patients with good general health tend to experience the most successful outcomes.

Are There Any Risks Involved?

Like all surgeries, bone grafting and sinus lifts carry some risks, though complications are rare when performed by an experienced provider. These risks may include:

• Infection
• Swelling or bleeding
• Graft rejection or failure to integrate
• Sinus irritation or discomfort (in sinus lift cases)

Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully helps minimize these risks and supports a smooth recovery.

Post-Procedure Recovery and Care

Most patients experience a manageable recovery and return to daily activities within a few days. Here are some standard aftercare guidelines:

• Expect mild swelling and tenderness for a few days
• Use prescribed medications as directed
• Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing near the treated area
• Refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol
• Rinse gently with salt water or a prescribed mouthwash

Complete bone integration can take several months, so patience is key to a successful outcome.

Average Cost of Bone Grafts and Sinus Lifts in Canada

The cost of these procedures can vary depending on complexity, the material used, and whether it is done alongside implant surgery:

• Minor bone graft: $400 – $1,000 per site
• Primary bone graft: $1,500 – $3,000
• Sinus lift: $2,000 – $4,500

While dental insurance does not always cover these procedures, some plans may contribute, especially if the treatment is deemed medically necessary. It is best to consult your insurance provider in advance.

Final Thoughts

Bone grafts and sinus lifts play a critical role in preparing patients for successful dental implant placement. These procedures rebuild lost bone, restore facial structure, and ensure that your implants remain secure for years to come.

If you have been told that you are not a candidate for implants due to bone loss, a consultation with a dental expert may open the door to life-changing treatments.

Restore Your Smile with Confidence – Visit Square One Health Group

At Square One Health Group in Mississauga, we offer advanced dental solutions, including bone grafting, sinus lifts, and dental implants, in a comfortable, 

state-of-the-art environment. Our experienced team uses the latest technology to ensure your procedure is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs.
Contact us for more information.