If you’re searching for “bone grafting Rock Springs”, you likely want to know if you need a graft before getting dental implants—and what the process, recovery, and cost look like. This page gives you clear, practical answers from a dentist’s point of view.
What is Bone Grafting – and Why It Matters for Implants
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area naturally shrinks. Bone grafting adds volume back so a dental implant can anchor securely. In many cases, a small graft done early prevents bigger procedures later.
Common reasons you might need a graft:
- Tooth removed months/years ago and the ridge is thin
- Long-term denture wear with bone loss
- Missing upper back teeth with a low sinus floor
- Infection or trauma damaged the socket
Good news: many grafts are minor, quick, and comfortable—often done at the same time as an extraction or implant placement.
Types of Bone Grafts We Use
1) Socket Preservation (after extraction)
A small graft placed immediately after a tooth is removed to preserve ridge width and height.
Best for: Planning a future implant in that spot.
2) Ridge Augmentation (horizontal/vertical)
Builds up a thin or sunken ridge so it can securely hold an implant.
Best for: Areas with noticeable collapse after long-term tooth loss.
3) Sinus Lift (internal or lateral)
Adds bone beneath the sinus in the upper molar area so an implant can be placed safely.
Best for: Missing upper back teeth with limited bone height.
We select the technique after a 3D CBCT scan and a quick in-person exam.
Can We Place the Implant at the Same Time?
Often, yes. If you still have decent bone, we can place a minor graft and the implant in one visit.
If the ridge is very thin or the sinus is low, we may graft first, allow 3–6 months of healing, and then place the implant.
We’ll map this out for you at your consultation so you know the exact timeline.
Costs
Costs vary between $350 and $3,500, depending on size and type. Contact us for details.
Financing: We offer monthly payment options and will help you use HSA/FSA funds.
Insurance: Some plans contribute when grafting is medically necessary; we’ll submit a pre-determination so you know your exact out-of-pocket.
What to Expect: Procedure & Recovery
During treatment
- Local anesthesia; IV sedation available if you prefer
- Procedure time: ~30–90 minutes depending on complexity
- Stitches dissolve in 1–2 weeks
Recovery
- Mild swelling/tenderness 2–3 days (managed with meds and cold packs)
- Soft foods first week; avoid straws and smoking
- Saltwater rinses start day 2–3
- Back to normal routines in 24–48 hours for most patients
We see you for quick checks to confirm the graft is healing exactly as planned.
Is Bone Grafting Safe?
Yes—bone grafting is a routine part of modern implant dentistry. We use sterile, well-researched materials and strict protocols. Risks (infection, graft exposure, sinus irritation) are uncommon and typically easy to manage when caught early. Good home care and not smoking help ensure predictable healing.FAQs
Will a graft add months to my treatment?
Sometimes. Small socket grafts don’t add much time. Larger ridge or sinus grafts may add 3–6 months before implant placement.
Does it hurt?
You’ll be numb (and can choose sedation). Most patients report pressure, not pain, and do fine with over-the-counter meds after day one.
What material do you use?
We use high-quality, biocompatible grafting materials designed to integrate with your own bone. We’ll explain options at your visit.
Can I avoid a graft?
If you still have enough bone, yes—especially with All-on-4 style placement that uses the densest areas of bone. We’ll confirm with a CBCT scan.
Related Treatments
Ready to See If You Need a Graft?
Book a no-pressure consultation. We’ll take a quick 3D scan, show you exactly what we see, and map the simplest path to your implant.
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Serving Rock Springs, Green River, and all of Sweetwater County.
