If you’re preparing for dental implants, you may hear you need a bone graft for implants. Bone grafting rebuilds lost jawbone so implants have enough support. This article explains why grafts are often required, the types of grafts used, how a bone graft for implants is planned and performed in Stillorgan, Dublin, what recovery looks like, risks and success rates, and practical questions to ask your surgeon.

What is a bone graft and why you might need a bone graft for implants

When a tooth is lost, the jawbone around that tooth can shrink. Infection, gum disease or trauma also cause bone loss. A bone graft replaces or rebuilds that lost bone so an implant screw can sit securely. Without enough bone, implants can fail or look unnatural. A bone graft for implants restores volume and shape so implants function and look right.

Types of bone graft for implants

Autograft (your own bone)

An autograft uses bone from your own body. It’s often taken from the chin, ramus (back of lower jaw) or hip for larger needs. Benefits:

• Best biology — highest chance of integrating
• No risk of disease transmission

It is more invasive because a donor site is needed and healing is required at two sites.

Allograft (donor human bone)

Allografts come from screened human donors and are processed to be safe. They’re common for many dental grafts because they avoid a second surgical site and are readily available. They work well when used with good surgical technique and healing time.

Xenograft and synthetic options

Xenografts come from other species (usually bovine) and synthetics are lab-made materials. Pros and cons:

• Pros: Widely available, no donor site on you
• Cons: May integrate more slowly; some patients prefer human or autograft bone

Synthetic materials are useful for small defects or when patients prefer to avoid donor bone.

Which material suits which case

Small defects often use allograft or synthetic materials. Large defects or when faster, predictable regeneration is needed may favour autograft or a mix of materials. Your surgeon will advise based on defect size, health and preferences.

How a bone graft for implants in Stillorgan, Dublin is planned

Assessment and imaging

Planning starts with a clinical exam and a CBCT scan to measure bone height, width and quality. A CBCT gives a 3D view so the team can plan graft volume, implant position and whether nerves or sinuses are involved.

Timing and staged treatment

Some grafts are done months before placing implants to allow full healing. In other cases a graft and implant are placed at the same time (simultaneous placement) if primary stability is possible. Your plan depends on bone quality and the size of the graft.

Costs, consent and preparing for surgery

Consultations cover costs, consent and medical history. You’ll be asked about medications, smoking and any health conditions. Expect instructions on fasting if sedation or general anaesthesia is planned.

What to expect during a bone graft for implants in Stillorgan, Dublin

Type of anaesthesia and appointment length

Procedures can be done with local anaesthesia, conscious sedation or general anaesthesia depending on complexity and patient comfort. Short grafts may take 45–90 minutes; larger grafts or combined procedures take longer.

Step‑by‑step of the procedure

Typical steps:

• Local anaesthetic and any sedation
• Small incision to expose the bone
• Removal of damaged tissue and placement of graft material
• Sometimes a membrane is placed over the graft to protect it
• Sutures close the site; implants may be placed at the same time if suitable

Immediate post-op care in clinic

After surgery you’ll receive dressings, written aftercare instructions and contact details for urgent concerns. Pain relief and antibiotics may be prescribed.

Recovery, healing time and aftercare for bone graft for implants in Stillorgan, Dublin

Pain, swelling and expected timeline

Pain and swelling are normal for the first few days and then improve. Small grafts may settle in a few weeks; most grafts need several months (commonly 3–6 months) to integrate before implants are loaded.

Diet, hygiene and medication

Stick to soft foods for the first week or two. Keep the area clean with gentle rinses and follow any stitch‑care advice. Take antibiotics and pain relief as prescribed. Avoid smoking — it reduces graft success.

Follow-up visits and when implants are placed

Your surgeon will schedule checks and imaging to confirm graft integration. Once healed, implants are placed or exposed and the restorative phase begins.

Red flags and when to contact the clinic

Contact the clinic if you have rising temperature, increasing pain, heavy or continuous bleeding, pus, numbness that worsens, or anything you feel unsure about.

Risks, success rates and choosing a team for bone graft for implants

Common risks and how they’re managed

Risks include infection, graft failure, nerve irritation and sinus issues for upper jaw grafts. These are managed with antibiotics, careful surgical technique and follow-up care.

Success statistics and realistic expectations

When planned and performed correctly, bone grafts for implants have high success rates. Smoking, poor gum health and uncontrolled medical conditions reduce success. Your surgeon will discuss realistic outcomes for your case.

Questions to ask your surgeon

• How many grafts and implants have you placed?
• Which graft material do you recommend and why?
• What is the expected healing time and cost?
• What are the risks and how will complications be handled?

About Smile More Implant Centre and Dr Saad Ahsan — expertise in bone graft for implants

Dr Saad Ahsan, DDS, PG Dip Implantology, trained at Trinity College Dublin and holds multiple Royal College of Surgeons memberships. He has advanced training across Europe and the U.S., and treats complex implant and grafting cases. He is a clinical supervisor at Dublin Dental Hospital.

Smile More Implant Centre in Stillorgan, Dublin uses advanced digital planning, 3D imaging and anxiety‑conscious care for bone graft for implants in Stillorgan, Dublin. The team treats complex cases and offers open, evidence‑based care in a modern clinic. To discuss whether a bone graft for implants in Stillorgan, Dublin is right for you, book a consultation with Smile More Implant Centre today.