Ridge Augmentation

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 is the bone that surrounds the roots of teeth. When a tooth is removed, there is an empty socket. Usually this empty socket will heal on its own, filling with bone and tissue. Sometimes when a tooth is removed, the bone is unable to heal on its own and will continue to deteriorate.

Rebuilding the bone is not medically necessary, but may be required for dental implant placement. Dental implants require bone to support their structure, and a ridge augmentation can help rebuild this bone to accommodate the implant.

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.  Once the socket has healed, the alveolar ridge can be prepared for dental implant placement.