Ridge augmentation is a common bone grafting procedure used to recreate the natural contour of the gums and jawbone after tooth loss and bone loss. The alveolar ridge of the jaw is the bone that surrounds and supports the roots of the teeth. This ridge may deteriorate after tooth loss or removal, leaving an indentation in the jawbone. Bone loss after tooth loss can not only affect your smile aesthetically but can also make tooth replacement more difficult. Our periodontist may recommend a ridge augmentation procedure to restore the original height and width of the alveolar ridge for aesthetic purposes or to allow the successful placement of a dental implant.
During the ridge augmentation procedure, our periodontist will carefully fill the indented area of the jawbone with bone grafting material. This helps to rebuild the alveolar ridge for a more natural appearance and to enable successful implant placement.
Ridge augmentation can often be performed immediately after the tooth is extracted to eliminate the need for a second procedure later. However, it may also be performed at a later time to prepare for implant placement. For more information about ridge augmentation, we invite you to contact our office today. We look forward to taking care of your smile!