There are three different methods of grafting bone:

• • Autogenous graft – This method takes the bone from an unimportant area, such as the chin, and places it in the area of the mouth being restored. This method of grafting bone is beneficial because the bone is taken directly from the patient, so there is little risk of rejection or infection.
  
  
• • Allograft – In an allograft, the bone sample is not taken from the patient’s own body, but rather a cadaver whose bone has been donated to a bone bank. The material undergoes a careful screening process to make sure it is safe.
  
  
• • Xenograft – A xenograft takes bone from a non-human source, usually a cow. This method of grafting bone is beneficial because it does not necessitate a second surgical site and large amounts of bone can be found easily.