When placing a dental implant, sufficient bone volume and density are essential for long-term success. In many cases, bone grafting is needed to build up the jawbone before or during implant placement. Korean dental clinics are experienced in combining bone grafting with implant surgery using advanced imaging and guided techniques. This guide explains typical costs, what’s included, and factors that influence pricing.

What Is Bone Grafting for Implants?

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that restores or augments jawbone where it has deteriorated due to:

• Long-term tooth loss
• Periodontal (gum) disease
• Trauma or infection
• Anatomical limitations such as proximity to the sinus

The graft material may come from the patient (autograft), donor bone, synthetic substitutes, or combinations. Bone grafting creates a stable foundation so that implants can integrate securely.

Average Costs for Implant Surgery With Bone Grafting in Korea

When bone grafting is required in addition to dental implant surgery, most Korean clinics charge separately for the graft and the implant placement.

Typical Implant Surgery With Bone Grafting Costs:
KRW 2,000,000 to KRW 4,500,000 per site

This range reflects combined fees for:

• Bone grafting procedure
• Implant placement surgery
• Follow-up care

The exact cost varies depending on graft type, implant system, and clinic services.

Breakdown of the Combined Fees

Most implant with bone grafting costs include several components:

1. Initial Consultation and Imaging
Includes dental exam, X-rays, and 3D scans to assess bone volume and plan the graft and implant position.

2. Bone Grafting Procedure
The graft material is placed where the bone volume is insufficient. The type of graft (autograft, allograft, synthetic) affects cost.

3. Implant Placement
Surgical insertion of the implant fixture into the grafted site once bone condition allows.

4. Post-Op Care and Follow-Up
Follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure integration.

In some cases, bone grafting and implant placement are performed at the same visit; in others, grafting is done first and implants placed once the bone is healed.

Factors That Affect Bone Grafting and Implant Costs

Numerous variables influence the total fee:

Type of Bone Graft Material

• Autografts (patient’s own bone) typically cost more due to additional harvesting procedures.
• Allografts (donor bone) and synthetic grafts tend to be less expensive.
• The choice of material affects both cost and healing time.

Extent of Grafting Needed

Small localized grafts cost less than large reconstructions or ridge augmentations.

Implant System Used

Premium implant brands may add to the surgical and prosthetic fees.

Surgical Technique

More advanced techniques (e.g., guided bone regeneration with membranes) may increase fees.

Clinic Location and Expertise

Clinics in central urban areas or those with specialized surgical teams often have higher fees reflecting experience and facility investment.

Additional Procedures That May Add to Cost

Some patients require other treatments in conjunction with grafting and implants:

Tooth Extraction
Removing a damaged or hopeless tooth before implant placement.

Sinus Lift
For upper jaw implants near the sinus, a sinus lift procedure may be necessary before or during grafting.

Soft Tissue (Gum) Grafting
In cases with gum recession or aesthetic needs, additional tissue grafting may be recommended.

Each of these procedures is usually billed separately.

How Bone Grafting Impacts Treatment Timeline

Bone grafts often need time to heal and integrate before implants can be placed. Depending on graft type and location, healing can take several weeks to a few months. In some cases, clinics perform implant placement and grafting simultaneously, shortening the overall timeline.

Insurance Considerations in Korea

Bone grafting combined with implant surgery is generally considered a non-covered dental treatment under standard Korean national health insurance. Most patients pay out of pocket, and clinics typically provide clear cost estimates before treatment begins.

Insurance coverage may be available in limited circumstances (e.g., severe bone loss due to disease in older adults), but these conditions vary and should be confirmed with your provider.

Is Bone Grafting Worth the Cost?

Bone grafting improves implant stability and long-term success by providing a solid foundation for integration. While it adds to the overall cost, skipping necessary grafting can compromise implant outcomes and lead to complications later.

A thorough evaluation ensures that grafting is recommended only when truly needed.

Final Thoughts

Implant surgery with bone grafting in Korea combines surgical precision, modern imaging, and personalized treatment planning. With typical costs ranging from KRW 2,000,000 to KRW 4,500,000 per site, patients can plan financially while understanding what is included.

If you are considering implant treatment and suspect bone loss, schedule a consultation with a dental clinic that can assess your bone condition and provide a detailed cost estimate tailored to your needs.