Why may bone surgery be needed?
An implant needs a suitable bone environment. When a defect prevents satisfactory implant positioning, bone augmentation may be discussed. A restorative option without grafting may sometimes be an alternative.
Preparing bone volume
Pre-implant Bone Surgery
When bone volume is insufficient, reconstruction may sometimes be considered before or during implant placement.
Which tests may be needed?
Planning combines oral examination, gum assessment, imaging and the future restoration. Three-dimensional imaging defines available bone volume and nearby anatomical structures.
Which techniques are considered?
Depending on the area and volume required, options may include local augmentation, an onlay graft or sinus floor elevation. The material, any donor site and alternatives are explained individually.
Anaesthesia and timing
The procedure may be performed under local or general anaesthesia. Reconstruction and implant placement may be simultaneous or separated by healing time; the schedule depends on the required volume and stability.
Usual recovery
Swelling, bruising, discomfort and restricted mouth opening may occur. Oral hygiene, use of a removable prosthesis, diet and return to activities should follow the individual instructions issued by the team.
When should you contact the team?
Report persistent bleeding, increasing pain or swelling, fever, discharge or wound opening. Difficulty breathing or swallowing requires urgent help: call 15 or 112 in France.
Reference information
The SFSCMFCO provides a detailed general patient sheet in French covering the aims, main steps and risks of pre-implant bone grafting. Read the SFSCMFCO patient sheet
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