Bone grafting and the associated augmentation techniques are themainstay for increasing the platform for implant therapy and assuringsuitable esthetic results. Most clinicians agree that the autogenous bonegraft provides the best results with the most predictability. However, thevery nature of the procedure requires a second surgical procedure. Thisinvolves increased surgical morbidity and the potential for complicationsat the donor site.In 1965, the discovery of a family of bone morphogenetic proteins(BMPs) changed the way bone grafting would be viewed. Dr. MarshallUrist was able to grow ectopic bone in the muscle of various animalsby implanting demineralized bone matrix. Today we are able to usethis technology to augment deficient alveolar ridges, atrophic maxillarysinuses, and socket defects without a second site surgery.However, there are still bone defects which can only be treated withblock grafts and associated techniques requiring major surgical incisionsfor augmentation. These procedures carry a certain complication ratewith wound dehiscence being the major finding. This dehiscenceoften leads to the loss of the entire graft. Utilizing dynamic cell therapytreatment in conjunction with the graft can reduce the incidence ofwound dehiscence and promote increased healing. The cell therapysupports soft tissue regeneration through adding an array of cytokinesand growth factors known to be associated with all phases of the woundhealing.This discussion will focus on the use of bone proteins and cell therapyfor augmentation procedures that previously were treated withconventional grafting techniques. Case histories will be utilized toillustrate the behavior of these new and exciting therapies.Learning Objectives:1. Be able to understand the science and the use of commerciallyavailable bone proteins.2. Know the indications for the use of bone proteins in graftingsituations.3. Understand the basic concepts of cell therapy and how it canaugment the implant practice.4. Understand the concepts to avoid complications with these newmaterials.