At Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston, Dr. L.T. Johnson and his team frequently use bone grafting to restore volume and create a strong foundation for dental implants. With cutting-edge technology and a patient-first approach, OFSIH is a trusted practice for oral surgery in Houston and beyond.
Before the procedure, Dr. Johnson will choose from four types of bone grafts: autografts, allografts, xenografts, and synthetic grafts. The right choice for you depends on the extent of bone loss, general health, treatment timeline, and personal preferences.Â
Autografts (Your Own Bone)
With an autograft, bone is taken from another part of your body, such as the jaw, chin, hip, or tibia, and placed in the required area.
This option has a high success rate. However, it also involves another surgical site, which can be a deterrent to some patients.
Allografts (Donor Bone)
Allografts use processed bone from a human donor (often taken from a tissue bank). This graft eliminates the need for a second surgical site. It tends to have a slightly longer integration time than autografts, though.
Xenografts (Animal Bone)
Xenografts come from non-human sources, generally bovine (cow) or porcine (pig) bone. The bone is processed to remove proteins, leaving behind a mineral structure that promotes new bone growth.
You won’t need to go through another surgery with this type of graft, but bone integration may take more time than autografts and allografts.
Synthetic Bone Grafts
Synthetic options, such as bioactive glass or hydroxyapatite, are artificial materials that mimic natural bone structure and encourage new bone growth.
With these grafts, there’s no risk of disease transmission. There’s also no concern about human or animal donors. However, synthetic grafts may not integrate as quickly as natural bone sources.
Start Strengthening Your Smile Today
Bone grafting is a proven method for restoring lost bone and ensuring long-lasting implant success.
If you’re thinking about dental implants or have been advised to undergo a bone graft, Dr. Johnson and the Oral and Facial Surgery Institute of Houston team are here to help. Contact us today at 281-491-4545 to schedule a consultation.
