What is Ridge Augmentation?
Ridge augmentation is a surgical procedure used to restore the natural contour and height of the alveolar ridge, the bone that surrounds and supports the teeth. This procedure is typically performed when there has been significant bone loss due to tooth extractions, trauma, or periodontal disease. Ridge augmentation is crucial for creating a stable and aesthetically pleasing foundation for dental implants or other restorations.
Why Do You Need Ridge Augmentation?
Ridge augmentation may be necessary for several reasons:
- Bone Loss: Tooth extractions, trauma, or periodontal disease can lead to significant bone loss in the jaw.
- Irregular Jaw Contour: Loss of bone can result in an uneven or irregular jawline, affecting facial aesthetics and function.
- Implant Stability: Insufficient bone height and width can compromise the placement and stability of dental implants.
Ridge augmentation helps to rebuild the bone structure, ensuring a stable foundation for implants and improving both the function and appearance of the jaw.
Our Ridge Augmentation Procedure
Consultation and Evaluation: Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation to assess your oral health and evaluate the extent of bone loss. We review your medical history and discuss your dental goals.
Treatment Planning: Based on our evaluation, we create a personalized treatment plan that outlines the type of ridge augmentation needed and the specific procedural steps.
Surgical Procedure: During the surgery, an incision is made in the gum to expose the area requiring augmentation. Bone graft material is then placed to rebuild the ridge. The graft may be obtained from your own body, a donor, or a synthetic source. The area is then covered with a protective membrane and the gum is sutured.
Healing and Integration: The grafted bone integrates with your natural bone over several months. We provide detailed post-operative care instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure successful integration.
Follow-Up and Restoration: Once the ridge has fully healed and the bone has integrated, we can proceed with dental implants or other restorative treatments, providing a strong and aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Benefits of Ridge Augmentation
- Restores Jaw Contour: Rebuilds the natural contour of the jaw for improved aesthetics and function.
- Supports Dental Implants: Provides a stable and sufficient bone structure for implant placement.
- Prevents Further Bone Loss: Maintains the health and stability of the jawbone.
- Improves Oral Health: Enhances the overall structure and function of the mouth, facilitating better oral health.