Bone Grafting for Dental Implants

Surgical Precision for a Stronger, Healthier Foundation

At Clackamas Implant & Oral Surgery Center, we specialize in preparing patients for long-term dental implant success—even when significant bone loss is present. Brett M. Sullivan, DMD, MD brings advanced surgical training, dual degrees, and over a decade of experience to every bone grafting procedure, ensuring each patient receives care that is both highly personalized and evidence-based.

Why Bone Grafting Is Sometimes Necessary

When teeth are missing for an extended time, the surrounding jawbone begins to shrink due to lack of stimulation. Bone loss can also result from:

• Periodontal (gum) disease
• Trauma or injury
• Infection or cysts
• Congenital conditions or previous surgeries

Without enough bone volume and density, implant placement may not be possible—or may lead to instability and long-term failure. Bone grafting restores the foundation, allowing for:

• Safe, stable placement of dental implants
• Improved facial structure and symmetry
• Restored bite function and oral health

Types of Bone Grafts We Offer

Dr. Sullivan selects the most appropriate grafting material based on your anatomy, health history, and treatment goals. Options include:

• Autograft: Bone harvested from your own body (typically chin or jaw). Offers the highest level of biocompatibility.
• Allograft: Donor bone (from a tissue bank) processed and sterilized to eliminate the need for a second surgical site.
• Xenograft: Bone sourced from bovine (cow) tissue—safe, sterile, and ideal for volume building.
• Synthetic Grafts: Bioengineered materials that mimic natural bone structure and encourage regeneration.

Each material is chosen with care to promote predictable healing and successful implant outcomes.

What to Expect During Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is performed in our fully equipped surgical suite, typically under local anesthesia or IV sedation for your comfort. Here’s how the process works:

Surgical Exposure: The treatment area is gently opened to access the site.

Graft Placement: The selected bone material is placed and shaped to support future implant placement.

Membrane Protection (if needed): A barrier may be applied to support healing and prevent soft tissue interference.

Sutures & Healing: The area is closed and monitored through follow-up visits. Over several months, your body integrates the graft and forms new, healthy bone.

Once the area has healed and bone volume is sufficient, implant placement can proceed with confidence.

Why Choose Dr. Sullivan for Bone Grafting?

• Dual-Degreed Surgical Expertise
  With both dental and medical degrees, Dr. Sullivan offers a deeper understanding of surgical anatomy, healing, and patient safety.
• Advanced Diagnostic Imaging
  We use 3D cone beam CT (CBCT) and digital treatment planning to ensure accuracy and reduce surgical risk.
• Proven Experience
  Dr. Sullivan has successfully performed hundreds of complex grafting cases, including sinus lifts, ridge augmentations, and site preservation.
• Team-Based Approach
  We coordinate closely with your referring or restorative dentist to ensure seamless care before, during, and after implant placement.