Ridge Augmentation - Washington D.C.

Ridge augmentation is a common bone grafting procedure used to correct the shape of the gums and jaw. Patients will often have this done in conjunction with other procedures, such as crown lengthening or dental implant placement. This augmentation aims to provide adequate bone volume for implant placement and to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile by restoring the natural height and contours of the gums and jaw.

Ridge augmentation is a relatively simple bone grafting procedure that can have a profound impact on the appearance of your smile. If you are interested in learning more about this process, give our practice in Washington D.C., a call today.

What Is Ridge Augmentation?

Ridge augmentation is a surgical bone grafting procedure performed to rebuild the ridge of the jawbone. The ridge is the portion of the jaw that extends from the cheekbone to the chin. When it is damaged or deteriorates, it can cause bone loss and changes in the shape of the face. Ridge augmentation can improve the appearance of the jaw, teeth, and gum line and help to restore lost facial volume.

How Is Ridge Augmentation Accomplished?

This grafting is typically performed using either human cadaveric bone ( allograft), one’s own bone(autograft), Bovine bone(xenograft)  or an artificial graft or other synthetic materials. In some cases, the patient’s bone may be used for the augmentation. The grafts are placed over the existing ridge and held in place with screws or titanium mesh. The area is then covered with collagen or another type of biological material. The grafts will typically fuse with the existing jawbone over time, creating a new ridge that is strong and durable.

Ridge Augmentation and Dental Implants

Ridge augmentation is a common solution used to help support a dental implant. An implant is used to replace one or more teeth that have been lost. The ridge is the area that runs along the top of the mouth, and it can shrink over time due to missing teeth or injury. This can make it difficult to place dental implants, as there may not be enough bone to support them.

Ridge augmentation helps build up the ridge, providing a strong foundation for the replacement tooth. It can also improve the appearance of the ridge, as it can help fill in any gaps or depressions. This is why ridge augmentation is a popular solution for patients considering dental implants and suffering from bone loss.

Who Should Get A Ridge Augmentation?

Ridge augmentation can be done for several reasons, such as to create a foundation for implant placement, improve the fit of dentures or to create a more esthetically pleasing appearance for your teeth and gums. However, several factors need to be considered when deciding if this process is right for you, such as:

• The severity of your bone loss: This process is most effective in patients who have mild to moderate bone loss.
• Your overall health: Ridge augmentation is an oral surgery that usually requires general anesthesia. This means that it’s essential to be in good health before undergoing surgery.
• Your goals: Ridge augmentation can improve your smile’s appearance and help restore lost facial volume. It’s important to have realistic expectations about the results of the treatment.
• The size and location of the area to be augmented: Ridge augmentation can be done on the upper or lower jawbone. The size of the area to be augmented will also affect the length of the surgery and the healing time.

If you are considering going through the ridge augmentation process, it is essential to consult with our experienced oral surgeons. They will be able to evaluate your case and determine if the procedure is right for you.