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Dental implants

Bone grafting

A straightforward, well-established step that rebuilds jawbone where it's been lost, so implants have a strong foundation.

Gentle, no-judgement care  ·  40+ years local

Service image: Bone grafting
In plain language

What bone grafting is

When a tooth has been missing for a while, the jawbone in that area can shrink. Bone grafting rebuilds it.

It creates a solid base so a dental implant can be placed securely, and it's a common, routine part of implant treatment.

Why it's sometimes needed

An implant needs enough healthy bone to anchor into. Where bone has been lost, grafting first gives the implant the strong foundation it needs for long-term success, skipping it risks the implant failing.

Makes implants possible

Where bone has been lost, grafting enables treatment.

A strong foundation

Sets implants up for long-term success.

Routine and gentle

A well-established, comfortable procedure.

Is this right for you?

You may need a graft if…

  • You've been missing a tooth for some time
  • Imaging shows there isn't enough bone for an implant
  • You're planning an implant or full-arch treatment
  • A tooth is being removed and the site preserved
  • Your dentist has flagged bone loss in the area
A calm, step-by-step process

How bone grafting works

1

Assess

Imaging shows whether grafting is needed for your implant.

2

Plan

We explain exactly what's involved and why.

3

Graft

The area is gently built up, fully numbed.

4

Heal

The graft integrates over a few months.

5

Proceed to implant

Once healed, your implant can be placed.

Honest about what to expect

Recovery & aftercare

Expect some mild swelling and tenderness for a few days, easily managed. The graft then needs a few months to heal before the implant goes in. We'll be honest about the timeline and aftercare so there are no surprises.

Thinking about a bone graft?

Book a visitRequest a callback

“I haven’t been to the dentist in years. I was embarrassed and anxious. The team here made me feel completely at ease — no judgement, just kindness.”

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No surprises

Clear on cost, before anything begins

You'll get a clear written estimate before anything goes ahead. We claim through HICAPS, and for larger treatment we offer payment plans through HUMM and Fund My Dental.

See our fees & health fund information →

Common questions

Questions about bone grafting

Why do I need a graft?

Bone can shrink after tooth loss; grafting rebuilds it for an implant.

Is it painful?

It's gentle and numbed, with simple aftercare.

How long before my implant?

Usually a few months of healing first.

Does every implant need one?

No, only when there isn't enough bone, we'll check.

Get in touch

We're here whenever you're ready

Book a consultation and we'll be in touch within one business day.

East St Kilda Dental
364 Dandenong Rd, East St Kilda VIC 3183

Opening hours

  • Mon – Thu8.30am – 4.00pm
  • Friday8.30am – 4.30pm
  • Saturday (monthly)8.00am – 4.00pm
  • SundayClosed

Caring for families on the corner of Dandenong Road since 1980, across Melbourne's inner south-east.

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We respond to all enquiries within one business day. Prefer to call? (03) 9527 3678