What is a Ridge Augmentation?
A ridge augmentation is a common dental procedure often performed following a tooth extraction. This procedure helps recreate the natural contour of the gums and jaw that may have been lost due to bone loss from 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 is 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 always 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.
How is a Ridge Augmentation 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. The steps involved are as follows:
Bone Grafting: After tooth extraction, bone graft material is placed into the empty socket. This graft material can be made from synthetic substances, animal bone, or a patient's own bone.
Covering the Socket: The gum tissue is then placed over the socket and secured with sutures. Dr. Gallagher may choose to use a space-maintaining product over the top of the graft to facilitate new bone growth.
Healing Process: Once the socket has healed, the alveolar ridge can be prepared for dental implant placement.
A ridge augmentation procedure is typically performed in Dr. Gallagher’s office under local anesthesia. Some patients may also request sedative medication to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Why is Ridge Augmentation Important?
Ridge augmentation is important for several reasons:
Dental Implant Placement: Dental implants require a stable and sufficient amount of bone to be securely placed. Ridge augmentation ensures that there is enough bone to support the implant.
Aesthetic Purposes: Restoring the natural contour of the gums and jaw can improve the overall appearance, especially in visible areas of the mouth.
Preventing Bone Loss: By rebuilding the bone, ridge augmentation helps prevent further bone loss that can occur after tooth extraction.
What to Expect After Ridge Augmentation
After the procedure, patients can expect some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications. It is important to follow post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing. The healing process can take several months, during which new bone will form and integrate with the existing bone.
Regular follow-up visits with Dr. Gallagher are essential to monitor the healing process and prepare for any subsequent procedures, such as dental implant placement.
By understanding what ridge augmentation entails, patients can make informed decisions about their dental health and the necessary steps to achieve optimal results. Dr. Gallagher's expertise ensures that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their specific needs.
Thank you for visiting Dr. Gallagher's Blog. We hope you found our articles informative and helpful on your journey to better oral and maxillofacial health. Our commitment is to provide you with the latest information and support, ensuring you feel confident and well-prepared for any procedure or treatment. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our office. Stay tuned for more updates, tips, and expert advice from Dr. Gallagher and his team. Your health and well-being are our top priorities.
Additionally, be sure to watch our YouTube channel, TMJ Tour, for detailed videos and insights on TMJ and other jaw-related conditions.
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