The reconstruction of bone defects remains a critical clinical problem. The use of bone grafts is the standard to treat bone fractures and regenerate lost bone. The most common bone graft used is the autogeneous bone graft, but its use can lead to complications such as pain, blood loss, infection and donor site morbidity. The use of bone graft substitute materials is an effective alternative approach to regenerate bone tissue.

Natural and synthetic bioceramics are frequently used as bone grafts in dentistry and orthopaedics. In this review, information about natural coral properties and recent advances in the use of coral for applications in bone graft substitutes was provided. Coral implantation experiments and their consequences among the studies conducted for the treatment purpose of bone defects were evaluated.