Ridge Augmentation
The jawbone naturally changes after a tooth is lost or removed. Over time, the bone that once supported the tooth can shrink, creating a ridge that is narrower, shorter, or uneven. Ridge augmentation is a bone grafting procedure designed to rebuild areas of the jaw that have lost volume.
At R. Anthony Murray, DDS, PA, ridge augmentation can help restore the natural contours of the jaw and create a stronger foundation for future dental treatment.
What Is Ridge Augmentation?
Ridge augmentation is a surgical procedure that rebuilds the alveolar ridge, the portion of the jawbone that surrounds and supports teeth.
When a tooth is lost or extracted, the surrounding bone resorbs because it is no longer stimulated by the tooth root. As the ridge shrinks, it becomes difficult to place dental implants or achieve ideal restorative results.
Ridge augmentation uses bone grafting materials to restore lost bone volume and improve the shape of the ridge. Depending on the extent of bone loss, treatment may involve minor grafting procedures or more advanced reconstruction techniques.
What Happens During Ridge Augmentation?
Whenever possible, ridge augmentation is performed immediately after a tooth extraction to help preserve the natural shape of the jaw and reduce future bone loss. After the tooth is removed, Dr. Murray places bone grafting material into the empty socket to rebuild and support the area.
In some cases, a protective membrane is placed over the graft to encourage healing and help the new bone develop.
The procedure is typically performed in our office under local anesthesia, with sedation available for patients who prefer additional comfort. As the area heals, the graft gradually integrates with your natural jawbone, creating a stronger foundation for future dental implants or other restorative treatments.
Who Can Benefit from Ridge Augmentation?
Ridge augmentation may be beneficial for patients who:
- Have experienced significant bone loss after tooth extraction
- Need additional bone support for dental implants
- Have jawbone defects caused by injury or infection
- Want to improve the appearance of a collapsed ridge
- Require reconstruction before restorative treatment
- Need to restore proper jaw contours and function
