Guided bone regeneration in Stockholm
Bone grafting before or alongside dental implants
If an implant has been recommended but there is not enough surrounding bone, guided bone regeneration (GBR) may be one option.
Bone graft material is placed beneath the gum and protected by a thin membrane while the area heals. We explain whether grafting is needed, whether it can be combined with implant placement and what alternatives you have.
When might you need bone grafting?
- When bone has shrunk after tooth loss and there is not enough width or height for the planned implant.
- When part of a planned implant would not have enough surrounding bone. Bone loss around an existing implant needs a separate assessment; GBR is not suitable for every defect.
- After infection or injury has reduced the amount of bone, once any active disease has been assessed and managed.
- When rebuilding the ridge could help position an implant appropriately for the planned tooth replacement.
If you are considering implants, your dentist will assess the available bone and discuss whether grafting is needed before or alongside your dental implant.
What happens during treatment?
- Planning & imaging: We examine the area and discuss your health, medicines and treatment goals. Where needed, we use dental imaging to assess the bone and nearby structures.
- Local anaesthesia & graft placement: The area is numbed before the graft is placed. Bone graft material (your own bone and/or a biocompatible substitute) is placed to rebuild volume.
- Barrier membrane: A resorbable or non-resorbable membrane covers the graft to shield it from fast-growing soft tissue.
- Secure & close: The site is stabilised and the gum is closed for healing.
- Follow-up: We monitor healing and plan the timing for your implant if not placed at the same visit.
How bone grafting may help
- May increase the amount of bone available to support an implant.
- May help rebuild the shape of the ridge around the planned replacement tooth.
- Can sometimes be carried out at the same time as implant placement, depending on the defect.
Healing and looking after the area
Some soreness, swelling and bruising can be expected after surgery. Recovery depends on the size of the graft and your health; allow time to rest and ask your dentist when to return to work or exercise.
The gum usually heals before the bone underneath is ready. Bone healing takes several months, and larger grafts may need longer. Depending on your case, the implant may be placed at the same time as GBR or after a separate healing phase. We provide tailored post-op instructions for cleaning, diet, and check-ups to protect the graft. If you feel anxious about treatment, ask us about sedation for relaxed dentistry.
Risks and considerations
Bone grafting does not always produce enough new bone for the planned implant. Possible complications include infection, wound opening and exposure of the membrane or graft. Further grafting or a different treatment plan may be needed. Your dentist will explain any additional risks related to the treatment site.
Smoking, general health and wound care can affect healing. Tell your dentist about medicines and health conditions before treatment, and follow your individual aftercare instructions.
When to contact us: Call 08-643 90 11 for increasing swelling, fever, pus, persistent bleeding or worsening pain. Difficulty breathing or swallowing requires emergency medical care.
Your assessment at Gloss & Floss
In the upper back jaw, a sinus lift may be discussed when bone height beneath the sinus is limited. It is a related procedure, not a requirement for every GBR case.
We first check whether bone grafting is needed for your planned tooth replacement. More complex defects may need specialist assessment.
Other ways to replace a missing tooth
Depending on your situation, alternatives may include a different implant approach, a bridge or a removable denture. In some cases, leaving the gap may also be an option. You can read about crowns and bridges or request a second opinion.
Understanding the costs
The cost depends on the size of the area, the materials and whether grafting is carried out separately from implant placement. Ask for a written estimate that identifies grafting, membrane, imaging and follow-up costs, alongside the later implant and crown fees. You can also review our dental fees and payment information.
Questions patients often ask
Will I definitely need a bone graft before an implant?
No. Imaging and examination help establish whether enough bone is available for the proposed treatment.
Can a bone graft fail?
Yes. Infection, wound opening or insufficient bone formation may require further treatment or a different plan. Your dentist will explain the risks relevant to your case.
What is guided bone regeneration in dentistry?
GBR is a surgical technique that pairs a bone graft with a protective membrane. The membrane blocks fast-growing soft tissue so bone cells can repopulate the area and rebuild volume for implants.
Is guided bone regeneration painful?
The procedure is done with local anaesthesia. Soreness and swelling afterwards vary with the extent of treatment. Your dentist will explain suitable pain relief and aftercare for you.
How long does healing take before an implant can be placed?
The gum often heals within the first few weeks, but bone healing takes longer. A healing period of around 4–6 months may be planned before implant placement; larger grafts can need longer. In selected cases, the implant can be placed during the grafting procedure. Your dentist will review healing before confirming the next stage.
What materials are used for GBR?
Bone grafts may use your own bone or a substitute from human, animal or synthetic sources. Membranes can also have different origins and may dissolve naturally or require removal. The choice depends on your treatment needs. Ask which materials are proposed for you, and mention any religious, ethical or personal preferences before treatment.
What are the main risks?
Risks include membrane exposure, wound opening, infection and incomplete bone gain. Their likelihood depends on the defect, technique, smoking, health and wound care; further grafting or a different plan may be necessary. Contact the clinic for increasing swelling, fever, pus, persistent bleeding or worsening pain. Difficulty breathing or swallowing requires emergency medical care.
Can GBR be done at the same time as my dental implant?
Yes, in selected cases. If bone volume is insufficient or the defect is larger, GBR may be performed first and the implant placed after the graft has matured. We will confirm the best sequence for your specific situation during your consultation.
Find out whether you need bone grafting
Your assessment is an opportunity to understand your options. We will examine the area, review any necessary imaging, and explain the likely stages, healing time and costs. You will have time to ask questions before deciding on treatment.
