Is It A Scam? Why Does My Dentist Tell Me I Need Bone Graft Before Dental Implants?

If you’ve been told you need a bone graft before getting dental implants, you might be wondering: Is this really necessary? Or is my dentist just trying to upsell me something expensive? 

It’s a fair question and one we hear a lot at Maple Dental. With dental treatments being such a big investment, it’s completely normal to question whether every step is essential.

In this article, we’ll walk you through:

• What a bone graft is (and why it’s sometimes needed)
  
• Whether it’s truly necessary in your case
  
• What red flags to watch for if you’re unsure
  
• How to get a second opinion without feeling awkward
  

First, What Is a Bone Graft, and Why Is It Recommended?

A bone graft is a procedure where a small amount of bone (either synthetic, donor, or your own) is added to your jaw. The goal is to create enough bone volume and density to support a dental implant securely. 

Why this matters:
Dental implants need to be anchored into strong, healthy bone. If there’s not enough bone to hold the implant, the implant may become loose — or fail completely.

Common Reasons You Might Need a Bone Graft

Here’s why your dentist may recommend a bone graft before implants:

You’ve been missing the tooth for a long time
Without a tooth, your jawbone starts to shrink — a process called bone resorption.

You had an extraction recently
Sometimes, bone around the tooth socket starts to collapse right after removal.

You had advanced gum disease (periodontitis)
Severe gum infections can damage the surrounding bone.

Your sinus is too close to the upper jaw
In the back upper teeth, a sinus lift (a type of bone graft) may be needed to make space.

You had a traumatic injury or infection
This may have damaged the bone structure where the implant is planned.

If your CBCT scan shows insufficient bone, your dentist might suggest a bone graft — not to “upsell” you, but to ensure the implant lasts.

But… Is It Really Necessary? Or Just a Sales Tactic?

It’s understandable to feel sceptical especially if:

• You were quoted for an implant, and only later told a bone graft is needed
•  You’ve seen cheaper implant prices elsewhere, without mention of a graft
• You weren’t shown the scan or X-ray that proves the need for one

Here’s what to expect from a trustworthy provider like Maple Dental:

• We will show you your 3D CBCT scan and explain where bone is missing
• We will explain the risks of skipping a bone graft (e.g., implant failure, bone shrinkage)
• We will explore if grafting can be avoided using smaller (not mini) or angled implants
• We will try to harvest your own bone to help you reduce costs. 
• We will offer second opinion guidance if you are unsure, without judgment. 

How Much Does a Bone Graft Cost in Singapore?

Bone grafts are not always as expensive as they sound. Depending on your case, costs can range from:

Medisave claims are available for many bone grafting procedures done for medical reasons. At Maple Dental, our team will help you understand what’s claimable — and assist with the process.

Can I Still Get Implants Without a Bone Graft?

In some cases, yes.

For certain patients, we may be able to:

• Use narrow-diameter implants that require less bone
  
• Angle the implant to anchor into stronger surrounding bone
  
• Perform immediate implants (placing the implant right after tooth removal) to reduce bone loss
  

At Maple Dental, Dr Colin Lam will always assess all possible options first before recommending grafting.

Red Flags: When to Be Cautious 

• The dentist doesn’t show you any imaging or scan
• You are not given the option to review your treatment plan
• You’re pressured to commit to surgery on the same day
• You’re told there’s only one way to do it — with no discussion of alternatives
• You feel rushed or unsure but are discouraged from getting a second opinion

What You Should Do If You’re Unsure

Ask for a copy of your CBCT scan
You’re entitled to your own records if you have made payment for your CBCT Scans. Use it to get a second opinion if needed.

Ask your dentist to show you the area of bone loss
A reputable dentist will walk you through it, not brush it off.

Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion
At Maple Dental, we routinely provide second opinions — especially for patients who have been advised to undergo complex or costly procedures elsewhere.

At Maple Dental, We Value Transparency

At Maple Dental, our goal is not just to place implants — but to place them safely, comfortably, and with long-term results. That means:

• We only recommend bone grafts when absolutely necessary
• We explain why it’s needed, with evidence from your scans
• We support you in making informed decisions, at your own pace

If you’ve been told you need a bone graft but aren’t sure why, let’s have an honest conversation. We’ll review your case, show you your scan, and explore every option available.