A bone graft in dental implantology is often needed to support weakened or deteriorated bone prior to placing a dental implant. This procedure involves grafting a section of donor bone — either from another part of the patient’s mouth or from an external donor. There are many different materials used for bone grafts and many types of grafts that can be done based on the patient’s needs and desired clinical outcome. An onlay bone graft is a widely used type of graft that involves laying the donor bone directly on top of the recipient bone’s surface. A membrane is typically applied, either resorbable or nonresorbable, to protect the graft from bacteria and soft tissue cells that can impede bone regeneration. During the 4-6 month healing period after an onlay bone graft, the patient’s natural bone will begin to fuse with the bone graft, also called osseointegration. Then, the patient will be ready for an implant.