Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is the procedure that rebuilds missing bone volume in the areas where dental implants need to be placed. After a tooth is lost the bone tends to shrink in height and width, and without a sufficient base an implant cannot be stable. In our Tirana clinics the graft is planned on the cone beam CT scan and performed by European trained implant surgeons who speak Italian and English, with certified biocompatible materials.

What is a bone graft?

It consists of placing, in the deficient area, a graft material that acts as a scaffold for the growth of new bone. The material can be the patient's own bone taken from a nearby area, treated and sterilised bone of animal origin, or synthetic materials; they are often combined. The graft is covered with a membrane that protects it during healing and guides regeneration. Within a few months the body replaces the material with its own bone, ready to receive the implant.

When is it indicated?

A bone graft is indicated when the bone ridge is too thin or too low for an implant, a frequent situation after extractions long ago, gum disease or trauma. It is also indicated right after an extraction, as socket preservation, to prevent the bone from shrinking ahead of a future implant, and to correct aesthetic gum defects in the front area. During the free consultation, on the CT scan, the surgeon assesses the amount and shape of the bone and explains whether a graft is needed and of what type.

How is the procedure carried out in our Tirana clinics?

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, with sedation if you wish. The surgeon opens a small gum flap, places the graft material shaping it to the ridge, covers it with the membrane and sutures. When the remaining bone allows it, the implant is placed in the same session, reducing the overall time. The duration varies from thirty to ninety minutes depending on the extent. You receive written instructions in your language on medication, eating and hygiene.

How long is healing and how many trips are needed?

A graft needs three to six months to turn into mature bone. If the implant is placed at the same time, the journey matches that of the implant: two short stays in Tirana. If the graft is done first, one short stay is added, and overall the treatment takes about six to nine months. Between trips the doctor follows you by video call and remains reachable on WhatsApp.

What are the advantages?

Bone grafting makes implantology possible where it would otherwise be impossible, allows implants to be placed in the ideal position for aesthetics and function, and guarantees lasting support for the gum. Modern regeneration techniques are predictable and well tolerated; the swelling of the first days is controlled with the prescribed medication. Every procedure is documented in the written treatment plan and covered by a warranty.

What should you do after the procedure?

In the first days ice is applied, a soft diet is followed and the operated area is not brushed directly, using the mouthwash indicated by the doctor. It is important not to smoke during healing, because smoking noticeably reduces the success of grafts. The stitches are removed or dissolve after about two weeks and the checkup can take place remotely.

How much does it cost?

We do not publish prices and we do not send quotes by email, because a price given without seeing the patient's mouth is not a quote but a promise that often changes once you are in the chair. The cost of the treatment is explained by our dental surgeon and implantologist, who speaks Italian and English, after your free consultation: online by video call or directly at the clinic in Tirana. You receive the treatment plan and the cost in writing, item by item, and from that moment they do not change. No surprises, no hidden costs, no salespeople: only a doctor who explains what you really need.