Surgical augmentation material
Bone Graft Materials
Bone graft materials used in implant dentistry include the patient's own bone (autograft), donor bone from a tissue bank (allograft), animal-derived bone substitute (xenograft), and fully synthetic bone substitute (alloplast) — each with different biological, ethical, and cost profiles.
Common uses
- Restoring bone volume at implant sites
- Ridge augmentation after tooth extraction
- Sinus lifts for upper jaw implant preparation
- Socket preservation after extraction to prevent bone loss
Advantages
- + Expands implant candidacy to sites that would otherwise lack sufficient bone
- + Multiple material options allow matching to patient preferences and case requirements
Limitations
- − Adds three to six months to the overall implant timeline for healing
- − Additional cost and a second surgical procedure
- − Autografts require a donor site in the patient's own body
Frequently asked questions
What is the most commonly used bone graft material?+
Allografts (processed donor bone from a tissue bank) are among the most commonly used in clinical practice, valued for their availability and established track record — though providers use different materials based on case needs and preference.
Is it safe to use donor bone in my jaw?+
Processed allograft bone goes through extensive sterilization and processing to eliminate disease transmission risk; it has a well-established safety record in both dental and orthopedic applications.