Considering dental implants but told you need a bone graft first?
It’s a common part of the journey for many patients—and at Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, our goal is to guide you through it with confidence and care. A strong jawbone is essential for implant success, and bone grafting can help restore the stability needed for long-term oral health.
Led by board-certified oral surgeon Dr. Ruba Khader, we use advanced technology and a compassionate approach to deliver reliable, evidence-based results right here in Milwaukee, WI.
This Article Will Address:
- Why bone grafting may be necessary before dental implants
- What happens during the bone grafting procedure
- The types of graft materials used
- What to expect during recovery
- Who qualifies for bone grafting
- Common risks and how we minimize them
- How bone grafting improves implant success
- Why patients in Milwaukee trust Dr. Ruba Khader
Why Is Bone Grafting Necessary for Some Dental Implant Patients?
Bone grafting is often recommended when a patient doesn’t have enough healthy jawbone to support a dental implant. This can happen for a number of reasons:
- Tooth loss that has gone untreated for a long time
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Trauma or injury to the jaw
- Natural bone thinning due to aging or anatomy
Without enough bone, dental implants may fail to integrate properly. Grafting helps rebuild bone volume, ensuring a strong, stable foundation for the new tooth.
What Is Dental Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure where bone or a bone substitute is placed in the jaw to encourage natural bone growth. Over time, your body integrates the graft material, rebuilding the jawbone to a level where it can reliably support a dental implant.
At Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Khader combines advanced techniques with 3D CBCT imaging to carefully assess your needs and deliver highly personalized care.
What Materials Are Used in Bone Grafting Procedures?
We use several types of graft materials, depending on your health history and goals:
- Autograft – bone from your own body
- Allograft – sterilized donor bone
- Xenograft – animal-derived material (usually bovine)
- Alloplast – synthetic, biocompatible materials
At our Milwaukee office, we most commonly use allografts and xenografts for their safety, predictability, and reduced recovery time. Dr. Khader will help you decide which material is best for your situation.
What Does the Bone Grafting Procedure Involve?
Your procedure will follow a well-structured process designed for comfort and success:
- Evaluation: 3D scans and consultation to determine bone loss
- Sedation or Anesthesia: Tailored to your comfort level
- Placement: The bone graft is carefully inserted in the area needing support
- Stabilization: In some cases, membranes or screws are used to secure the graft
- Healing: The body regenerates bone over the next few months
- Follow-Up: We monitor progress to ensure ideal implant timing
Healing typically takes 3 to 6 months before implants are placed.
What Is the Recovery Process Like After a Bone Graft?
Initial healing occurs within 1–2 weeks, but full integration takes time. Here’s what to expect:
Short-Term Recovery Tips:
- Stick to soft foods for the first few days
- Avoid smoking, which slows healing
- Take prescribed medications as directed
- Use cold compresses for swelling
- Attend all follow-up appointments
When to Call Us:
- Signs of infection (fever, increased pain, or discharge)
- Persistent bleeding
- Severe swelling or discomfort after several days
We’re just a call away if you have questions at any point in your recovery.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Bone Grafting?
Most healthy adults with jawbone loss are candidates. You may be a great fit if:
- You’ve had a missing tooth for a while
- You’ve experienced trauma or bone thinning
- You’re in good general and oral health
- You’re committed to maintaining your post-op care
For patients with more severe bone loss, Dr. Khader may also discuss alternatives such as zygomatic implants.
Are There Risks or Complications with Bone Grafting?
Like any surgical procedure, bone grafting carries some risks:
- Infection
- Graft rejection or failure
- Prolonged healing
- Mild discomfort
However, choosing a board-certified surgeon like Dr. Ruba Khader, who uses precise imaging and evidence-based techniques, greatly reduces your risk. Our Milwaukee office prioritizes patient safety and provides detailed pre- and post-op instructions.
How Does Bone Grafting Contribute to Long-Term Implant Success?
Dental implants rely on osseointegration—the process where your bone fuses with the implant post. Bone grafting helps:
- Improve the amount and quality of bone available
- Prevent implant instability or failure
- Allow for better implant positioning
- Support more natural-looking, functional restorations
In short, grafting gives your implant its best shot at long-term success.
Why Choose Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for Bone Grafting in Milwaukee?
- Expertise: Dr. Ruba Khader brings over a decade of oral surgery experience, including residency training from Tufts and academic roles at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
- Technology: We use 3D CBCT imaging and modern grafting techniques for accuracy and comfort.
- Patient-Centered Care: Every step of your visit—from consultation to recovery—is designed for comfort and compassion.
- Strong Referrals & Reputation: Trusted by local dentists and beloved by patients across Milwaukee.
- Board-Certified: Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
Strengthen Your Smile With Bone Grafting in Milwaukee, WI!
Bone grafting lays the groundwork for a confident, healthy smile—especially when implants are part of your treatment plan. At Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Milwaukee, WI, we’re here to guide you with expert care, advanced technology, and a deep commitment to your comfort and outcome.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Ruba Khader today, and take the first step toward lasting results you can trust.
Sources:
Dr. Ruba Khader
Dr. Ruba Khader is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon and the founder of Community Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Milwaukee, WI. With advanced training from Tufts University and over a decade of experience in both academic and clinical settings, Dr. Khader is known for her compassionate approach and commitment to excellence in surgical care. She combines state-of-the-art technology with evidence-based practices to deliver personalized treatment for each patient. A former president of the Wisconsin Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, Dr. Khader takes great pride in serving her community with integrity, skill, and heart.