Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc.

Ridge Augmentation

A ridge augmentation involves positioning a bone graft directly into an empty socket from a tooth's roots, which then helps re-create the natural shape of both the gums and jawbone that have been lost following a tooth extraction. Ridge augmentation is used quite often to reestablish your jaw’s natural contour. After a tooth has been extracted, the jawbone immediately begins to atrophy and weaken to the point of recession. The empty tooth socket, once supported by the tooth, now shrinks in height and width. An indentation in the gums and the jawbone will develop. This is because when your tooth is missing, your bite pressure is not applied to the jawbone in that specific spot. This lack of stimulation and constant pressure on the jawbone results in the shrinkage of bone.

It is crucial that you see Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. to replace a tooth once it is removed so that the jawbone does not atrophy too quickly. If the jawbone has lost density, we will recommend ridge augmentation treatment to halt and reverse this natural process.

Beginning with your very first visit with Periodontal and Implants Associates, Inc., our entire dental team is committed to establishing a relationship with you, acknowledging your unique individual needs, and striving effortlessly to provide personalized oral health care to meet your goals.

We focus on creating the ultimate stress-free and comfortable dental experience. Your health and comfort are our top priorities, and we will do what is necessary to help you understand your symptoms and your treatment options in a relaxed environment. Call Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. at (256) 734-8588 with any questions or to make an appointment for a possible ridge augmentation evaluation.

The procedure is especially beneficial for the placement of a dental implant. When the jawbone integrity is restored in width and height, this ensures the new implant has the stability to extend its longevity. A ridge augmentation procedure might be necessary simply for aesthetic reasons, or it may be needed to hold an implant in place after a tooth has been lost or removed.

Are You a Candidate for a Ridge Augmentation?

Here are several examples of reasons to consider ridge augmentation:

  • Missing teeth will result in atrophy of your jawbone.
  • Gum disease which has resulted in soft tissue deteriorating.
  • Developmental defects which did not allow enough gum or bone tissue to form in certain areas.
  • Oral trauma, such as a tooth which is impacted below the gum or bone tissue.
  • Wearing traditional dentures will deteriorate the jawbone and affect the gums.

Why Does Jaw Bone Deteriorate?

Your jawbone will begin to atrophy immediately after you lose a tooth. When there is a gap missing in your arch, your bite pressure is no longer evenly distributed, leaving the jawbone in that area unstimulated and unchallenged, resulting in it weakening. It is essential to replace a tooth before your jawbone deteriorates too much. If your jawbone has indeed atrophied such that it can no longer successfully support an implant, a ridge augmentation is necessary to reverse this process.

A bone graft procedure restores a jawbone around the missing tooth. The ridge augmentation needs several months to heal, and when it is integrated, an implant can be placed.

Ridge Augmentation Procedure

During your ridge augmentation procedure, Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. will place soft gum tissue, hard bone tissue, or both, in the space that needs to be restored. This surgical technique augments bone and gum tissue for both functional and cosmetic purposes.

Once the bone regains more width or height, the new dental implant will have sufficient stability in your jawbone. We may recommend the ridge augmentation procedure for your aesthetic concerns as well.

There are two types of ridge augmentation procedures: soft tissue or hard tissue.

If we are performing a soft tissue procedure, which is often performed for aesthetic reasons, we will numb the immediate area first. Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. will then create an incision to expose the site. Next, we might obtain a soft tissue graft from the roof of the mouth, or a donor substitute, and insert the graft. We will then suture the area closed to begin the healing process.

If you are having a dental implant restoration, a hard tissue graft could be required. The immediate area will be numbed before the procedure begins. Next, we will make a small incision and lift the gum away to reveal the jawbone. The bone graft Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. will insert will be taken from either another area within your mouth or from a donor source. Once the bone graft is placed, we will suture your gum tissue over the graft.

Recovering from Ridge Augmentation Surgery

Ridge augmentation varies for everyone, but it might take some time to completely recover from your procedure. Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. will advise and guide you with your recovery plan.

After your ridge augmentation, we will strongly advise you to avoid hard foods. It is also best to avoid sipping through a straw or smoking. It is common to have trouble chewing and talking right after your ridge augmentation.

When you have completed your recovery, the most advantageous thing to do is to continue to practice good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time and continue flossing daily.

Along with your at-home care habits, you should schedule consistent checkups every six months. During these routine checkups, Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. will conduct professional cleanings and monitor the overall state of your oral health, identifying any issues before they develop.

We Change Lives One Smile at a Time

It is our mission at Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. to educate and provide every patient with the best periodontal and dental care found in Alabama. The attention to detail by our entire dental team achieves quality and successful dental results with healthy and beautiful smiles for all patients. We collaborate to realize a shared vision of excellence. We are committed to:

  • Listening to those we have the opportunity to serve.
  • Earn the trust and respect of every patient, profession, and community.
  • Exceeding your expectations.
  • Ensure a creative, challenging, and compassionate professional environment.
  • Striving for continuous improvement at all levels.

You can find Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc. at 315 Second St. SE, Cullman, AL, 35055. Or give us a call today at (256) 734-8588.

Periodontal and Implant Associates, Inc.

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