The short answer
A dental bone graft adds bone or bone-like material where the jaw has thinned, creating a solid foundation for a dental implant. At Pebble Beach Dental, grafting is planned on a 3D CT scan and is often done the same day a tooth is removed or an implant is placed.
- Planned with
- i-CAT 3D CT
- Healing
- 3–6 months
- Same-day with extraction
- Often
- Sedation
- Available
Why the jawbone shrinks after tooth loss
Tooth roots stimulate the bone every time you chew. Once a tooth is gone, that stimulation stops and the bone begins to resorb — sometimes losing a significant portion of its width in the first year. Grafting at the time of extraction (socket preservation) is the easiest way to protect the site for a future implant.
Types of grafts we use
Depending on your needs, we may recommend socket preservation, a ridge augmentation to widen thin bone, or a sinus lift to add height behind the upper canine teeth.
- Socket preservation
- Ridge augmentation
- Sinus lift
Hear from a real patient
Who bone grafting is right for
- A tooth has been missing for a while
- You are having a tooth removed and want an implant later
- You were told you lack bone for implants
- Upper back teeth are close to the sinus
60-second quiz
Are you a candidate for dental implants?
Question 1 of 3
What best describes your teeth today?
- 1Answer 3 questionsAbout your teeth and goals.
- 2See your matchThe option that usually fits.
- 3Claim your specialBook a free consult + 3D scan.
This quiz is educational, not a diagnosis. Your doctor confirms candidacy with an exam and 3D CT scan at your free consultation.
What to expect, step by step
- 1
3D assessment
We measure bone height and width on your CT scan to decide if and where a graft is needed.
- 2
Graft placement
Graft material is placed and covered with a protective membrane, usually under local anesthesia.
- 3
Healing
Your body replaces the graft with your own bone over a few months, then the implant is placed.
Compare your options
Why patients choose Pebble Beach for implants
| Factor | Pebble Beach Dental | Many implant centers |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation | Free exam, 3D CT scan, plan and written estimate | Scan or consult fees vary |
| Who you see | The same local doctors from consult to final teeth | Often separate surgeon, restorative dentist and lab |
| Implant training | Dr. Atherly is a Fellow of the ICOI | Varies by provider |
| 3D imaging | In-office i-CAT 3D CT for precise planning | Sometimes referred to an outside imaging center |
| Options offered | Single implants, implant dentures and All-on-4® | Some centers focus on full-arch only |
| Care afterward | Cleanings and checkups in the same Fair Oaks office | Often a separate general dentist for follow-up |
| Payment | Promotional financing through CareCredit and Allegro Credit | Varies by provider |
Comparison reflects common practices across the industry, not any specific provider. Always ask what's included before you commit.
Cost & financing
How much does bone grafting cost in Fair Oaks?
Grafting cost depends on the type and size of the graft. It is itemized on your written estimate at the free implant consultation, and it can be included in 0% financing.
Estimated monthly payment
$417/mo
$5,000 over 12 months, paid in full within the promotional period
Have dental insurance? Many PPO plans help with parts of implant treatment, such as extractions, grafting or the crown. We check your benefits before you start. Specials can't be combined with insurance.
Example only. Promotional financing through CareCredit and Allegro Credit is subject to credit approval; terms, rates and availability vary. Your exact cost comes from the written estimate at your free consultation.
Bone Grafting FAQs
Is bone grafting painful?
Most patients feel mild soreness for a few days, similar to an extraction.
Where does the graft material come from?
We typically use safe, processed donor or synthetic materials, so no second surgical site is needed.
Can I avoid a bone graft?
Sometimes. Angled implant techniques like All-on-4® often avoid grafting. Your scan will tell us.
How long before I can get an implant?
Usually three to six months, though small grafts can sometimes be placed at the same time as the implant.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Michael Atherly, FICOI. Reference: American Academy of Implant Dentistry. This page is educational and not a substitute for an exam.