Allografts vs. Autografts: What is the Difference in Types of Bone Grafts?

Susan asks:
What is the difference between the different bone grafts for my dental implant procedure? I have read about allografts and autografts, and other terms. But, I'm not sure what it all means and which bone graft is the safest and best for me.

Answered by: Dr. Alan H. Farber

Medford, NY

Hi Susan,

Good question.

Autograft means that the graft is coming from your own body tissue. This is always the safest method. However, in most cases it means an additional surgical site and therefore additional discomfort. This is why medical technology has developed other types of bone grafts, like Allografts and Xenografts.

Allografts are derived from other humans, and go through a sterilization process that makes them very safe. Allografts are very common.

Xenografts are derived from pigs or cows. They are also used very commonly in the dental field and are very safe.

All of the above types of bone grafts work in the right situation and I would leave it to the surgeon to decide what would work best in your situation.