procedures
What Is A Ridge Augmentation?
A ridge augmentation is a common dental procedure often performed following a tooth extraction to help recreate the natural contour of the gums and jaw that may have been lost due to bone loss as a result of a tooth extraction, or for another reason.
The alveolar ridge of the jaw is the bone that surrounds the roots of teeth. When a tooth is removed, an empty socket is left in the alveolar ridge bone. Usually this empty socket will heal on its own, filling with bone and tissue. Sometimes when a tooth is removed, the bone surrounding the socket breaks, and it unable to heal on its own. The previous height and width of the socket will continue to deteriorate.
Rebuilding the original height and width of the alveolar ridge is not medically necessary, but may be required for dental implant placement, or for aesthetic purposes. Dental implants require bone to support their structure, and a ridge augmentation can help rebuild this bone to accommodate the implant.
procedures
How Is The Oral Surgery Accomplished?
A ridge augmentation is accomplished by placing bone graft material in the tooth socket. It is often done immediately after the tooth is removed, to avoid the need for a second procedure later. Next, the gum tissue is placed over the socket and secured with sutures. Our office may choose to use a space-maintaining product over the top of the graft to help restore the height and width of the space created by the tooth and bone loss, and into which new bone should grow. Once the socket has healed, the alveolar ridge can be prepared for dental implant placement.
A ridge augmentation procedure is typically performed inour surgical team’s office under local anesthesia. Some patients may also request sedative medication in addition.
Procedure FAQ
Questions About Ridge Augmentation
When should I ask about Ridge Augmentation in Waterloo?
Patients should ask about ridge augmentation when a dentist has recommended specialist oral surgery care, symptoms are affecting comfort or function, or imaging suggests that ridge augmentation may require specialist diagnosis or treatment planning. The Waterloo office can review referrals, records, and next steps during consultation.
What happens during a consultation for Ridge Augmentation?
A consultation usually includes a review of medical history, dental concerns, referral information, and any needed imaging. The surgical team explains whether ridge augmentation is appropriate, what alternatives may exist, and how treatment is planned.
How should I prepare for Ridge Augmentation?
Preparation depends on the treatment plan, anesthesia needs, imaging, and instructions provided by the office. Patients should bring medication details, referral information, insurance questions, and any X-rays or imaging requested by the office.