What is Bone Grafting?
Bone grafting is a surgical procedure used to rebuild or augment bone that has been lost or weakened due to trauma, tooth loss, gum disease, or congenital conditions. In dentistry, it is most commonly used to prepare the jaw for dental implants by creating a strong, stable foundation.
At South Mississippi Oral Surgery & Implant Center in Gulfport, MS, our experienced oral surgeons perform both minor and major bone grafting procedures to help patients restore their jaw health and become candidates for implants. Bone grafting not only improves bone volume and density—it also supports facial structure, oral function, and long-term treatment success.
Types of Bone Grafts
The source of the grafting material plays a key role in the healing process and success of the procedure. Below are the main types of bone grafts we offer or utilize in our practice:
Autogenous Bone Grafts
Also called autografts, these are harvested from the patient’s own body—typically the chin, hip, or tibia. Autogenous grafts contain living cellular material, which promotes natural bone growth and integration. They are often considered the gold standard for large or complex grafting needs, though they do require a second surgical site for harvesting.
Allogenic Bone
Allogenic grafts, or allografts, are derived from human donor bone that has been processed and sterilized. While they do not contain living cells, they serve as a strong scaffold for new bone to grow into. Allografts eliminate the need for a secondary surgery and are frequently used for minor to moderate bone loss cases.
Xenogenic Bone
Xenografts come from non-human sources—usually bovine (cow) bone. These grafts are thoroughly cleaned and processed to ensure safety and compatibility. Xenogenic materials act as a slow-resorbing scaffold, allowing natural bone to gradually grow and replace the grafted area.
Bone Graft Substitutes
In addition to traditional grafting materials, advanced substitutes are available that provide alternative options for stimulating bone growth, especially in complex or medically sensitive cases.
Demineralized Bone Matrix (DBM)
Demineralized Bone Matrix is a processed form of allograft bone that has had its mineral content removed, leaving behind growth factors and collagen. DBM can be mixed with other graft materials and is often used in combination with other biologics to enhance healing. It offers osteoinductive properties—meaning it can help signal the body to form new bone.
Graft Composites
Graft composites are made by combining different materials—such as DBM, ceramics, collagen, or growth factors—to optimize results. These composites aim to maximize bone regeneration, handleability, and long-term success. They are especially useful in cases requiring tailored grafting solutions, such as ridge augmentation or sinus lifts.