Bone Grafting

Patients seeking to replace missing teeth with implant restorations may first require a bone grafting procedure to provide ample support for dental implants. With our modern surgical techniques, a bone graft can be a virtually painless procedure. Our practice routinely performs this oral surgery with excellent outcomes for patients. Dr. Jerry Hancock offers bone grafting at his Nashville, TN, practice, and also provides implant placement and complete restorative dentistry services. 

bone grafting

Why a Bone Graft Becomes Necessary

Bone grafting is commonly recommended for dental implant patients who have lost bone tissue in the alveolar region, or the bony ridge of the jaw. This ridge provides necessary support for teeth and is prone to shrinkage (resorption) when teeth are missing from the jaw. Patients who have worn a removable dental appliance for years may have lost too much bone to properly support implant dentures

With a dental bone graft, new bone tissue is transferred to replace lost tissue. Through the body’s natural regeneration process, the tissue fuses to existing bone and new bone begins to form. The process takes several months, but once healing and fusion is complete, you can have permanent implants placed. Depending upon the extent of bone loss, your bone graft can be performed at the same time as implant placement. 

While the patient’s own bone can often be used for grafting, donor tissue is typically used. Use of processed bone (sterile, non-organic mineral material) is a safe, proven method for successful oral grafting and tissue regeneration. 

The Bone Grafting Procedure

Dr. Hancock will review all aspects of your recommended treatment and ensure you understand your options and the procedure. Many patients are pleased to learn bone grafting is generally performed in the dentist’s chair with just a local anesthetic. Our practice also offers sedation dentistry options that can increase your comfort level during the process, including IV sedation. 

Dr. Hancock can also perform a sinus lift if necessary. This procedure adds bone to the upper molar area, which is located near the sinus cavities. The grafting process is completed with the insertion of small, dissolving collagen growth stimulators at the surgical site. This encourages optimal bone growth to support your implants. 


A bone graft extends the treatment timeline, but is a step well worth taking for many restorative dentistry patients.


Some patients may receive immediate bone grafting with tooth extraction, which preserves and enhances the existing bone in the socket. This ridge preservation technique reduces bone loss so you can proceed with dental implants in the near future. 

A bone graft extends the treatment timeline, but is a step well worth taking for many restorative dentistry patients. With a strong, sturdy base, you can anchor permanent tooth restorations to achieve optimal function and aesthetics. You can rest assured that, under Dr. Hancock's exceptional care, you will receive outstanding attention to detail throughout the grafting, implant placement, and restoration processes.

Schedule an Appointment

Whether you need a simple bone graft or full mouth reconstruction, you can depend upon Dr. Hancock for all your oral surgery needs. Please call our office at (615) 383-0132 or contact our office online today to schedule your consultation. Using state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Hancock can determine if you will require a bone grafting procedure prior to your dental implant surgery. 

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3829 Cleghorn Avenue

(615) 383-0132

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