Ridge Augmentation
Rebuilding the Foundation for a Natural Smile
What Is a Ridge Augmentation?
A ridge augmentation is a common and important procedure performed to restore the natural shape and contour of the gums and jawbone that may be lost after a tooth extraction or due to trauma, infection, or long-term tooth loss. The alveolar ridge is the portion of the jawbone that surrounds and supports the roots of the teeth. After a tooth is removed, the bone that once supported it may begin to shrink or collapse—especially if:
- The surrounding bone is thin or fractured during extraction
- There was infection or bone loss around the roots
- The socket fails to regenerate its original height and width on its own
This bone loss can result in a sunken appearance in the gums and may make dental implant placement impossible without first rebuilding the area. While restoring the shape of the jaw ridge may not always be medically required, it is often essential for successful dental implant placement. Implants need sufficient bone volume and quality to anchor securely.
Why is Ridge Augmentation Performed?
- Rebuilds bone height and width
- Supports better implant stability and success
- Helps maintain natural gum contours
- Can improve long-term aesthetic outcomes
How is the Procedure Done?
A ridge augmentation is typically performed at the time of tooth extraction to minimize the need for future surgery. The exact approach depends on the severity of bone loss and your long-term treatment goals.
1. Placing Bone Graft Material
After removing the tooth, the empty socket is filled with particulate bone graft material to encourage natural bone regeneration and preserve ridge shape. In cases of more advanced bone loss, a block graft (a small, solid piece of dense cortical bone) may be used instead. This block is precisely shaped and secured to the jaw ridge with tiny fixation screws to rebuild the bone structure in severely deficient areas.
2. Stabilizing the Graft
To protect the graft and support proper healing, Dr. Williams may place a barrier membrane or space-maintaining material over the site. This helps the ridge maintain its form and prevents soft tissue from collapsing into the space.
3. Suturing the Site
The gum tissue is gently respositioned and secured with sutures to cover and protect the grafted area during healing.
4. Healing Period
Over the next several months, your body naturally replaces the graft with new, healthy bone, rebuilding the ridge and creating a solid foundation for future dental implant placement. Healing time may vary depending on the type of graft used and the extent of the augmentation.
Rebuilding What’s Been Lost—Expertly and Comfortably
Ridge augmentation ensures a strong, supportive foundation for long-term dental success. At Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery, Dr. Williams and our team are highly trained in advanced bone regeneration techniques to help restore your smile’s natural appearance and function.