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Is a bone graft beneficial if I never get an implant?

Last Updated: Nov 25, 2014

A few years ago I had to have my last two molars on the upper left removed and the next tooth had a root canal and was waiting on a crown lengthening, post and crown. A week ago that tooth broke off at/below the gum line. I have quite a bit of bone loss from the previous extractions as seen on the xray. The dentist wants me to have the perio in their office remove the root tips and place a bone graft (cadaver) and membrane with the option for an implant eventually. My insurance will pay for all but the implant, which I was quoted to be nearly $5000. Obviously chewing is an issue and I need something back there but I don’t forsee ever being able to afford the implant. My dentist said a partial is an option if I can’t do the implant. I am not entirely comfortable with idea of the bone graft to begin with. My question then is if the bone graft would even be beneficial if I never get the implant? Won’t that bone reabsorb as well? Btw if age/gender play a role here I am 40 and female. Thank you for any advice.

2 Comments on Is a bone graft beneficial if I never get an implant?

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David C. Furnari DDS

11/25/2015

I highly reccomend that you have the bone graft. As you must remove the hopeless and periodontally infected roots you will heal best with a ridge preservation bone graft. Even though you may not do the implant immediately and some bone remodeling can take place you will still be better off. As for the fees they other answers from the two previous dentists are reasonable. Do not be afraid to ask a doctor for references from his previous implant patients. This is a good thing to do and should be utilized more often. As for your age ,you have many years ahead and should definitvly maintain as much healthy bone as possible. The fact that you are female will not be a factor in your bodies ability to heal. Good luck, David Furnari DDS

Dr. H Ryan Kazemi

11/25/2015

The bone graft, even if you do not get an implant, remains in place with some remodeling over time. But for the most part remains intact. This is what we call extraction site preservation graft. It is recommended because whether you get an implant or a bridge or denture, the site will have a more normal form and contour which will be both aesthetic, functional, and easy to clean. I absolutely recommend site preservation grafting if finance is not an issue. The implant and crown fee of $5000 is not unusual if you are seeing specialists, with use of brand name implants, proper use of guides, good quality laboratory, and high precision work- but it can be lifetime of benefti if it is done right the first time. Also age and gender are not factors in bone retention. My recommendation- If you can get the implant- you will be happy you did in the long term. Dr Kazemi

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