Losing a tooth—whether from decay, injury, or extraction—often leaves the jawbone underneath without stimulation. Over time that bone starts to shrink and recede, creating a sunken look and making future dental work more difficult. A bone graft rebuilds the missing bone so it can support a dental implant, bridge, or even help preserve your natural facial structure.
Many people face this procedure when planning for an implant but are surprised by the added expense. Bone grafting is almost never optional if you want a stable, long-lasting replacement tooth. Costs vary widely depending on where you live, the type of graft material, and the complexity of your case.
Understanding the price range helps you plan financially and ask the right questions during consultations. Prices have risen steadily with inflation and material costs, but insurance, financing options, and choosing the right provider can make a meaningful difference.
What a Bone Graft for One Tooth Actually Involves
A single-tooth bone graft replaces or regenerates bone lost in the socket after extraction or due to periodontal disease. The dentist or oral surgeon places graft material into the empty space, covers it with a membrane or flap of gum, and lets it heal for several months before placing an implant.
The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes under local anesthesia, sometimes with sedation. Healing time ranges from 3 to 9 months depending on the graft type and your body’s response. Success rates exceed 90–95% when performed by experienced clinicians.
Most patients experience mild swelling and discomfort for a few days, managed with over-the-counter pain relief and ice. Proper aftercare—soft foods, no smoking, gentle oral hygiene—helps the graft integrate successfully.
How Much Is a Bone Graft for One Tooth
The average cost for a bone graft on one tooth in the United States ranges from $400 to $1,800 in 2025–2026, with most patients paying $600–$1,200 out of pocket after insurance contributions. Simple socket preservation grafts (done immediately after extraction) sit at the lower end, while more complex ridge augmentation or sinus lifts push toward the higher range.
Geographic location drives the biggest variation. Urban centers and coastal cities often charge 30–60% more than rural or Midwestern areas. Specialist fees (oral surgeons vs. general dentists) and the type of graft material also influence the final bill.
These figures represent the surgeon’s fee for the graft procedure itself. They exclude the cost of the future implant ($1,500–$4,000), crown ($1,000–$2,500), and any additional imaging or sedation.
Main Factors That Drive the Price Up or Down
The type of bone graft material is one of the largest cost drivers. Autografts (your own bone harvested from another site) are the most expensive due to the second surgical site but offer the highest success rate. Allografts (donor bone) and xenografts (animal-derived) cost less and are used most often for single-tooth cases.
Synthetic or alloplastic grafts fall in the middle price range and avoid donor-site surgery. The choice depends on the amount of bone needed, your medical history, and the surgeon’s preference.
Location matters significantly. Practices in high-cost metropolitan areas charge more to cover overhead, while smaller cities and rural regions often have lower fees. Traveling to a nearby lower-cost area can save hundreds or even thousands.
The complexity of the defect plays a big role. A simple socket preservation after a straightforward extraction costs far less than rebuilding a severely resorbed ridge or performing a sinus lift for an upper molar.
Types of Bone Grafts and Their Typical Costs
Socket preservation grafts fill the empty tooth socket right after extraction to prevent bone loss. These are the most common single-tooth grafts and usually cost $400–$900.
Ridge augmentation rebuilds a collapsed or narrow ridge when bone has been missing for years. Prices range from $800–$2,000 depending on the extent of the defect.
Sinus lifts (for upper back teeth) add bone below the sinus floor and typically cost $1,200–$2,800 per side. Block grafts using a small piece of bone from the chin or jaw are rarer for single teeth and can exceed $2,000.
Here is a comparison table of the most common bone graft types for one tooth:
| Graft Type | Material Used | Typical Cost Range (2025–2026) | Healing Time Before Implant | Best For | Pros / Cons Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socket Preservation | Allograft, xenograft, synthetic | $400 – $900 | 3–6 months | Fresh extraction sockets | Lowest cost, simplest; prevents loss |
| Ridge Augmentation | Autograft, allograft, xenograft | $800 – $2,000 | 6–9 months | Long-term missing tooth | Good volume; more invasive |
| Sinus Lift (lateral window) | Allograft or xenograft | $1,200 – $2,800 | 6–9 months | Upper molar/premolar area | Allows implants in thin bone; longer heal |
| Block Graft | Autograft (chin/ramus) | $1,500 – $3,500+ | 6–9 months | Severe horizontal/vertical loss | Strongest integration; donor site needed |
Prices are surgeon fees only and exclude imaging, sedation, or future implant costs.
Does Dental Insurance Help Pay for Bone Grafts
Most traditional dental insurance plans classify bone grafts as major procedures and cover 50–80% after the deductible when the graft is deemed medically necessary for an implant or to prevent further bone loss. Coverage caps ($1,000–$2,000 annually) often limit reimbursement.
Many plans exclude grafts done solely to prepare for implants unless the policy specifically includes implant-related procedures. Waiting periods for major work (6–12 months) can delay coverage.
Medicare does not cover routine dental procedures, including bone grafts or implants. Some Medicare Advantage plans add limited dental benefits, but generous coverage for grafts remains rare.
Ways to Lower the Cost of a Bone Graft
Choose an experienced general dentist or periodontist instead of an oral surgeon when the case is straightforward. Generalists often charge 20–40% less for socket preservation grafts.
Look for dental schools or teaching clinics that offer discounted services under faculty supervision. Prices can be 30–60% lower while maintaining high standards.
Ask about payment plans, CareCredit financing, or in-office discounts for upfront payment. Many practices offer 0% interest financing for 12–24 months.
Compare quotes from 2–3 providers after a consultation and cone-beam CT scan. Prices can differ significantly even within the same city.
Summary
A bone graft for one tooth typically costs $400–$1,800 in 2025–2026, with most patients paying $600–$1,200 out of pocket after insurance. Socket preservation grafts sit at the lower end, while more complex ridge augmentation or sinus lifts reach the higher range. Location, graft material, provider type, and case complexity drive the biggest price differences.
Dental insurance often covers a portion when the graft is medically necessary, though annual maximums and waiting periods limit reimbursement. Medicare excludes these procedures, making Medicare Advantage plans with dental riders one of the few options for partial help. Comparing quotes, choosing in-network providers, and exploring financing can make the procedure more affordable.
FAQ
What is the average cost of a bone graft for one tooth in the United States?
Most patients pay $600–$1,200 out of pocket after insurance for a single-tooth bone graft. Simple socket preservation grafts average $400–$900, while ridge augmentation or sinus lifts cost $800–$2,800. Prices vary widely by region and provider.
Does dental insurance cover bone grafts for dental implants?
Many dental plans cover 50–80% of bone grafts when they are medically necessary to support an implant or prevent further bone loss. Coverage is limited by annual maximums and waiting periods. Always verify your specific policy details.
Why are bone graft prices so different from one dentist to another?
Fees depend on the surgeon’s experience, geographic location, type of graft material (autograft vs. xenograft), and case complexity. Urban specialists charge more than rural general dentists. Always compare 2–3 quotes after a consultation.
Does Medicare cover bone grafts or dental implants?
No, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover routine dental procedures, including bone grafts or implants. Some Medicare Advantage plans add limited dental benefits, but generous coverage for grafts remains uncommon.
How long does it take for a bone graft to heal before getting an implant?
Healing usually takes 3–6 months for socket preservation grafts and 6–9 months for more complex ridge or sinus procedures. Your surgeon will use X-rays or CT scans to confirm the bone is ready for implant placement.
Are there cheaper alternatives to traditional bone grafts?
Socket preservation with synthetic or xenograft material is often the most affordable option. Some patients qualify for dental school clinics or discount programs that reduce costs by 30–60%. Discuss all options during your consultation.
Can I finance a bone graft if insurance does not cover enough?
Yes, many dental offices offer CareCredit or in-house payment plans with 0% interest for 12–24 months. Third-party financing companies also provide longer terms with reasonable rates. Ask your provider about available options.
Dr. Hamza is a medical content reviewer with over 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic conditions. His reviews are grounded in trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Hamza is intended for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.