How Much Does a Dental Bone Graft Cost?
Dental bone grafting costs $1,525 on average, but the price can range from $250 with insurance up to $3,000 without it, according to 10 reviews from RealSelf members who have had the procedure.
Read on to learn which factors will impact the cost of dental bone grafting, a surgical procedure that replaces bone loss inside your jaw, and whether actual patients think their procedure was worth the money.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Dental Bone Grafting
What does the cost include?
During your consultation, ask for an all-in price quote that includes:
- the consultation
- initial examination fees
- fees for X-rays, CT scans, and/or other types of screening procedures
- the cost of tooth extraction (if necessary)
- surgeon's fees
- the cost of the bone graft
- facility fees (if getting autogenous bone extraction at a surgery center or hospital)
- the cost of anesthesia
- any additional costs for supplies or prescription medication
If you also plan to have dental implant surgery, this is also a good time to ask for a detailed cost quote for that procedure so you can factor all of those expenses into your budget.
What affects the cost of dental bone grafting?
These are the biggest reasons your dental bone graft cost may be above or below the average price.
1) The complexity of your procedure
The level of bone mass loss in your jaw will be a determining factor that impacts how much a dental bone graft costs.
Minor bone grafting, the type that uses synthetic bone and is performed in-office to support a dental implant, is usually far less expensive than major bone grafting, which is usually performed to repair jaw defects. This type of grafting, which is done using your own bone, is required for patients who’ve had a traumatic injury, cancer surgery, or congenital defect.
Major procedures are typically performed in a hospital and require an orthopedic surgeon, anesthesiologist, and hospitalization—significantly raising the cost of the procedure.
2) The type of bone graft used
One of the biggest factors that affects the cost of bone grafting for dental implants is the type of bone used for the procedure.
There are four sources available to accomplish a dental bone graft, which have varying costs:
- Autogenous or autograft bone: This bone is extracted from the patient’s own body—usually the hip, knee, chin, or another part of the jaw. It’s among the most expensive options for a dental bone graft because it requires two procedures (extraction and grafting), general anesthesia administered by an anesthesiologist, and care from a specialized surgeon.
- Allogenic or allograft bone: Derived from human cadaver bone from a certified medical tissue bank, this bone source is generally more affordable than bone derived from your own body.
- Xenograft bone: Bone sourced from animals—most often cows—is the most commonly used source for dental bone grafts. If price is a primary concern for you, the average cost of dental implants with xenograft bone is more affordable compared to the prior two options.
- Alloplastic or synthetic bone: While not the first choice, synthetic bone graft material or mineral bone substitute are FDA-approved, and they’re the least expensive option.
During your consultation, your provider should be able to tell you which source is best for your unique condition and why.
3) Type of grafting procedure performed
There are four main types: socket preservation, ridge augmentation, sinus lift, and periodontal bone graft. Your provider will recommend the best one for your unique situation. The more complex the procedure, the more it will cost.
4) Your provider’s credentials and expertise
Dental bone graft procedures are often performed by a general dentist or a specialist provider, such as an oral surgeon or a periodontist (a gum specialist). Your doctor’s qualifications—including whether they're board-certified, how long they've been in practice, and whether they specialize in this particular procedure—will influence their fee.
You may want to seek a more specialized provider if the loss of bone in your jaw is severe or you need to correct serious issues. A provider with more experience in dental bone grafting may be better equipped to create the best outcome and prevent adverse effects.
When researching providers, do your due diligence and seek out providers with positive patient reviews and a demonstrated history of excellent care.
While how much a dental bone graft costs will likely be a determining factor in your journey, your doctor’s qualifications and experience should take precedence over financial considerations, as much as possible. It’s always more cost-effective to have it done right the first time.
5) The geographic location of your provider’s practice
Medical providers who practice in major cities where the cost of living is higher will often charge more, to help cover their higher rents and other overhead.
If you live in a densely populated area with a higher cost of living, you may want to look for a qualified provider in a more affordable area or consult with more than one, so you can compare personalized treatment plans and cost quotes.
6) The type of anesthesia you need and who administers it
Minor bone grafting typically requires local anesthesia or—if you’re nervous about the operation—IV sedation that’s administered by the provider who’s performing the procedure.
Major bone grafting is performed under general anesthesia provided by an anesthesiologist (an MD) or nurse anesthetist (CRNA), a factor that will significantly raise the cost of the procedure. A CRNA will charge a lower fee for their services than an anesthesiologist.
Is a dental bone graft worth the money?
Dental bone grafting is a good investment, according to RealSelf members who reviewed the procedure. They give it an 83% Worth It Rating.
When the procedure is performed correctly, it has a host of benefits:
- improvements in facial structure
- a long-term solution to bone loss in the jaw
- prevention of further tooth loss
- the ability to enjoy a wider range of foods
- less discomfort
Dental bone graft surgery can also be an essential first step to support the titanium screw and crown of a future dental implant, a procedure that RealSelf members give a 93% Worth It Rating.
Finding an experienced oral surgeon or dentist will minimize the risks of bone graft failure and potential complications like nerve damage and sinus problems.
Is dental bone grafting covered by insurance?
Insurance may cover all or part of your dental bone graft, if it’s deemed medically necessary (for reasons like preventing tooth loss).
Dental insurance typically doesn’t cover the cost of dental implants to replace missing teeth, so you’ll most likely have to pay for that portion out of pocket. A single dental implant usually costs between $1,000 and $3,000.
Check with your insurance company about the details of your individual dental insurance plan, and consult with your oral surgeon's staff on how to document medical concerns, to support your claim.
If your claim is denied, financing is another option. Most providers accept financing options like CareCredit. Some also offer monthly payment plans, to help make your out-of-pocket expenses more manageable.