Bone Grafting in Tucson AZ
Dental Patient Reviews
If you have been told there is not enough bone for an implant, or you have experienced bone loss after an extraction or advanced gum disease, surgical rebuilding may be necessary before treatment can continue. Insufficient jaw support can limit implant stability and negatively impact the long-term health of nearby teeth.
At Wilmot Family Dentistry in Tucson, we evaluate bone volume using detailed imaging before recommending grafting. When rebuilding is required, we focus on restoring structural support so implants can integrate properly or weakened areas can be reinforced.
Insurance benefits and financing options are reviewed before treatment, so you have clear financial information from the start.
Types of Bone Grafting Procedures We Provide in Tucson
Bone loss presents differently depending on how long a tooth has been missing and how the surrounding structures have changed. We evaluate bone height, width, and density before selecting the appropriate surgical method.
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Meet Your Tucson Family Dentist
Joe Lyman, D.D.S.
Dr Joe Lyman earned his dental degree from the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health at A.T. Still University. He brings broad experience in comprehensive general dentistry, including oral surgery and pediatric care. Dr Lyman proudly serves the Tucson community and remains active in volunteer outreach.
Office Information
(520) 438-6200
899 N Wilmot Rd A2,
Tucson, AZ 85711
OFFICE HOURS
Monday & Wednesday: 8 AM – 5 PM
Tuesday & Thursday: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday: 8 AM – 12 PM
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Our Bone Grafting Options
Bone Graft After Tooth Extraction
When a tooth is removed, the surrounding socket begins shrinking within weeks. Placing graft material at the time of extraction helps maintain bone volume and reduces collapse of the ridge. If you are planning an implant later, preserving the site early can prevent additional surgery.
Ridge Augmentation for Jawbone Loss
If bone width or height has already decreased, ridge augmentation rebuilds the area so implants can be positioned correctly. This procedure restores structural volume in the jaw and improves long-term stability for future restorations.
Sinus Lift for Upper Molar Implants
In the upper back jaw, the sinus often limits available bone depth. Elevating the sinus floor and placing graft material increases vertical height. This allows implants to anchor securely in areas that otherwise lack sufficient support.
Periodontal Bone Grafting for Loose Teeth
Advanced gum disease can destroy the bone around teeth and lead to mobility issues. In selected cases, grafting helps rebuild localised support and reduce further structural loss.
Osseous Grafting for Advanced Bone Defects
Larger defects caused by infection or trauma may require more extensive reconstruction. Osseous grafting restores foundational support in areas where significant bone has been lost.
Bone grafting is a treatment that uses transplanted bone from another source to repair or rebuild damaged bones. Bone can be transplanted from the patient (autograft), a corpse (allograft), or synthetic bone.
When is a bone graft needed?
A bone graft can be considered if bones do not heal properly. Unhealed bones may occur or result in the following ways:
- Delayed union: When bone healing, or fusion, takes longer than predicted.
- Bones that recover in an irregular position are known as malunions.
- Nonunion: When there is no bone fusion.
- Osteonecrosis and malignancy of the bones.
- Infection of the bones, or osteomyelitis.
- Anomalies that occur at birth, such as unequal limbs or a tiny chin.
- Before obtaining a tooth implant when the jaw must be reinforced, or a dental bone transplant.
- Joint replacement surgery may necessitate bone development in order to anchor an artificial joint.
- Fusion of the spine.
- Trauma, such as severe fractures that rupture bones.
Here’s what to expect during bone grafting surgery:
- Anesthesia is administered to momentarily inhibit sensation.
- The surgeon makes an incision in the skin to gain access to the bone that needs to be grafted.
- To prepare the bone for the graft, the surgeon cleans it and removes unhealthy tissue.
- The graft is placed and fixed in place using various surgical procedures, which may include the use of hardware such as plates or screws.
- The wound is closed with stitches by the surgeon.
How long does it take to perform a bone graft procedure?
The length of the procedure is determined by the complexity of the case and the size of the bone that must be harvested or repaired. The majority of bone graft operations take between 1-2 hours.
What are the benefits of a bone graft?
The advantages can vary depending on the grafting process
Autograft procedure:
- There is no risk of disease transmission.
- Infection is unlikely.
- The presence of bone-growing cells in the graft raises the likelihood of effective bone healing.
Allograft procedure:
- No additional surgery is required to harvest bone tissue.
- Because bone tissue has been sterilized, there is a low danger of disease transmission.
- It takes no tissue from other bones.
Artificial bone graft procedure:
- Germ-free, sterile.
- It is available in infinite amounts, allowing it to mend vast areas of bone.
- There are numerous solutions available, making it easier to meet a wide range of medical demands.
Contact Wilmot Family Dentistry to learn more:
Together, we can choose the solution that best suits your grafting needs and medical history. After healing, your bone graft will be functional for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a bone graft cost in Tucson?
Bone graft costs depend on the type of procedure and the size of the area being rebuilt. Socket preservation after extraction runs $300 to $800. Ridge augmentation and sinus lifts range from $1,500 to $3,500. Wilmot Family Dentistry reviews your insurance benefits and provides a written cost breakdown before treatment begins.
How long does a bone graft take to heal?
Most patients see initial healing within four to six weeks, but the graft takes three to six months to fully integrate with your natural bone before an implant can be placed. The timeline depends on the size of the graft, the location in the jaw, and how well the site is maintained during recovery.
Does a bone graft hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia so you do not feel pain during the surgery itself. Soreness and mild swelling in the days following are normal and managed with prescribed medication. Most patients find the discomfort more manageable than they expected and return to normal activity within a few days.
Do I need a bone graft before a dental implant?
Not always. If you have adequate bone height, width, and density at the implant site, grafting is not needed. We evaluate bone volume using detailed imaging before making any recommendations.
Patients who have lost a tooth recently, had significant gum disease, or waited a long time after extraction are more likely to need rebuilding before an implant can be placed securely.
Where can I get bone grafting in Tucson?
Wilmot Family Dentistry in Tucson, AZ performs socket preservation, ridge augmentation, sinus lifts, periodontal bone grafting, and osseous grafting in our office. Call (520) 438-6200 to schedule a consultation and find out if grafting is needed before your implant placement.