Bone Grafting

Bone Grafting offered in Chesapeake, VA

Losing a tooth can affect more than your smile. Over time, the jawbone beneath a missing tooth can shrink, making it harder to replace the tooth with a dental implant. Bone grafting helps rebuild lost bone and create a stronger foundation for future dental restorations. At Chesapeake Family and Implant Dentistry: Harry W. Squire, DDS, the dental team offers personalized bone grafting treatment to support your oral health and long-term smile. Call the office or schedule a consultation online to learn whether dental bone grafting is right for you.

 Bone Grafting FAQ's

What is dental bone grafting?


Dental bone grafting is a procedure that helps rebuild or preserve bone in areas of your jaw where bone has been lost or damaged. Your jawbone provides essential support for your natural teeth and dental implants, but it can gradually deteriorate following tooth loss, gum disease, or injury.


During a bone grafting procedure, Dr. Squire places bone grafting material in the affected area to encourage new bone growth. The material may come from your own body, a donor source, an animal-derived source, or a synthetic substitute.


As your jaw heals, new bone gradually develops around the graft, creating a more stable foundation for dental restorations.


Why might I need a dental bone graft?


Bone grafting is often recommended when there isn't enough healthy jawbone to support a dental implant. However, it can also help preserve bone following tooth extraction or address bone loss caused by other dental concerns.


Dr. Squire may recommend bone grafting to:


  • Replace bone lost after tooth extraction
  • Prepare your jaw for dental implants
  • Address bone loss associated with periodontal disease
  • Restore bone damaged by dental trauma
  • Preserve the jawbone following tooth removal
  • Improve support for future dental restorations

Not everyone who needs a dental implant requires bone grafting. Dr. Squire evaluates your jawbone and oral health to determine whether the procedure would be beneficial.


What happens during a bone grafting procedure?


First, Dr. Squire examines your teeth, gums, and jawbone, potentially using dental imaging to assess the amount of available bone.


During the procedure, the treatment area is numbed with local anesthesia. The grafting material is carefully placed where additional bone support is needed. A protective membrane may be used, and the gums are typically secured with sutures.


Afterward, you'll receive instructions for managing discomfort, protecting the surgical area, and supporting healing.


How long does dental bone grafting take to heal?


Initial healing usually takes one to two weeks, but the bone itself may need several months to develop and integrate with the grafting material.


Healing time depends on the size and location of the graft, your overall health, and whether additional dental treatment is planned.


Dr. Squire monitors your progress and determines when your jaw is ready for the next step.


To learn more about bone grafting at Chesapeake Family and Implant Dentistry: Harry W. Squire, DDS, call the office or book an appointment online.