When teeth are lost, the bone that used to surround the teeth typically begins to shrink as it heals. Alternatively, if periodontal disease is present in the mouth, the bone that supports our teeth may be lost due to persistent infection and inflammation. With modern bone grafting techniques, bone that was lost can be built-up again. Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that can be done within the dental office setting. There are various sources of material and techniques that can be chosen in order to stimulate new bone growth in areas that need it. Bone can even be regenerated around the teeth to restore their support and function or at an edentulous site prior to implant placement.