Bone Grafting in Albania: Do You Need It Before Dental Implants?

Bone Grafting: What It Is and Why It Matters

If you have been told you do not have enough bone for dental implants, do not give up. Bone grafting is a well-established procedure that rebuilds lost jawbone to create a solid foundation for implants. In Albania, this procedure costs a fraction of UK prices.

Why Does Bone Disappear?

When a tooth is lost, the bone that supported it begins to resorb (shrink) because it no longer receives stimulation from chewing forces. The rate of bone loss varies:

• First year: Up to 25% of bone width can be lost
• After 3 years: Significant vertical and horizontal reduction
• After 10+ years: Severe atrophy that may require extensive grafting

This is why early implant placement is always recommended. But even with significant bone loss, modern grafting techniques can rebuild the foundation.

Types of Bone Graft

1. Socket Preservation (at time of extraction)

Bone graft material placed into the tooth socket immediately after extraction. Prevents the rapid bone loss that occurs in the first months. This minor procedure is done at the same time as the extraction and adds no extra healing time for the implant.

2. Sinus Lift (Upper Jaw)

The most common bone graft for upper jaw implants. The sinus membrane is gently lifted and bone graft material placed underneath. Required when the sinus has expanded down into the area where implants need to go. Healing time: 4–6 months.

3. Ridge Augmentation (Horizontal or Vertical)

Bone graft material and a membrane are placed along the jawbone ridge to increase its width or height. Used when the ridge has narrowed significantly. Healing time: 4–8 months.

4. Block Graft

A block of bone harvested from the patient’s own jaw (or chin) and fixed to the deficient area with screws. Used for large defects. Healing time: 4–6 months.

Alternatives to Bone Grafting

In some cases, grafting can be avoided entirely:

• All-on-4 tilted implants: Angled implants engage existing bone without grafting
• Zygomatic implants: Anchor in the cheekbone, bypassing the upper jaw
• Short implants: 6–8mm implants that work in limited bone height
• Pterygoid implants: Engage the pterygoid plate behind the upper jaw

The right approach depends on your specific bone situation. Send us your CBCT scan for a free assessment and we will advise whether you need grafting or can use an alternative technique. Learn more about our implant services.