Bone Grafting in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Where Does the Bone for a Dental Graft Come From?

This is one of the most common questions patients have, and the answer is reassuring. Bone graft material can come from a few different sources—your own body, a tissue bank, an animal source, or a synthetic, lab-made material. All options used at Elite Dentistry are safe, biocompatible, and thoroughly processed. Rather than permanently “filling in” the gap, the graft acts as a scaffold that your body gradually replaces with its own new bone. Dr. Lari will explain which material best fits your needs during your consultation.

Can You Get a Bone Graft Years After Losing a Tooth?

Yes, it’s rarely too late to rebuild bone. When a tooth has been missing for a long time, the jaw in that area naturally shrinks, which is why many people are told they lack enough bone for an implant. A bone graft can restore that lost volume even years later, recreating a solid foundation for a future implant or other restoration. The main factors are your overall health and the condition of the surrounding bone. Dr. Lari can use 3D imaging at Elite Dentistry to evaluate whether grafting will work for you.

Is a Bone Graft in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, Always Done Before an Implant?

It depends on your situation, and both approaches are common. In some cases, a graft is placed and allowed to heal for several months before an implant goes in. In others—particularly when a tooth is being removed—the graft can be placed into the empty socket the same day to preserve bone for a future implant. Occasionally, grafting and implant placement happen together when conditions allow. Dr. Lari will determine the best sequence for you based on your bone volume and treatment goals.