Ridge Augmentation

Ridge Augmentation: Restoring Dental Health

The journey toward restoring your smile with dental implants requires a strong foundation. When a tooth is lost or extracted, the alveolar ridge, the bony ridge that holds our teeth, can deteriorate over time. This bone loss can make it difficult or even impossible to place dental implants successfully.

Dr. Paola Rojas offers ridge augmentation in Mt. Prospect at Northwest Dental Specialists, a vital procedure for patients with bone loss following tooth extraction or other oral health issues. With advanced training in restoring the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and bone, we help patients achieve the foundation necessary for dental implants and a natural-looking smile.

What is Ridge Augmentation?

Ridge augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to rebuild the alveolar ridge. When tooth loss, gum disease, or bone resorption occurs, the ridge can lose its original height and natural contour, impacting your appearance and oral functionality. This treatment uses bone grafting to restore the ridge, creating a solid base for dental implants or improving the appearance of the gums.

When is Ridge Augmentation Necessary?

Ridge augmentation becomes necessary when the alveolar ridge lacks sufficient height and width to support dental implants. This bone loss typically occurs due to tooth loss, as the alveolar ridge begins to shrink once it’s no longer supporting a tooth. Other contributing factors may include gum disease, injury or trauma to the jaw, and even the prolonged use of dentures.

When a tooth is extracted, bone resorption, the natural process of bone breakdown, occurs in the empty socket. Over time, this can lead to significant bone loss, leaving insufficient support for dental implants. Ridge augmentation counteracts this bone loss, restoring the alveolar ridge to its original height and width for optimal implant placement.

The Ridge Augmentation Procedure

Before the procedure, Dr. Rojas will conduct a comprehensive examination, including X-rays, to assess the condition of your jawbone and plan the surgery accordingly. The treatment plan will also include whether or not you need bone grafting.

Bone Graft Placement

During the procedure, a dental bone graft is placed in the affected area to promote bone regeneration. This material may come from your own body, a donor, or a synthetic option.

Guided Bone Regeneration

Special membranes may be used to encourage the growth of new bone and soft tissue, restoring the ridge’s natural contour.

Healing Process

Over time, the graft integrates with the existing bone, providing a sturdy foundation for future restorations, such as dental implants.

Why Get a Ridge Augmentation?

There are many benefits to having Dr. Rojas perform a ridge augmentation. With these benefits, this procedure is a valuable solution for Mt. Prospect patients dealing with bone loss or preparing for dental implants.

Restores the Natural Contour of the Gums and Jawline

When bone loss occurs, it can result in a sunken or uneven appearance in the jawline. Ridge augmentation helps restore the original height and shape of the bone, improving the aesthetic harmony of your smile and facial structure.

Provides a Strong Foundation for Dental Implants

A sturdy alveolar ridge is critical for the successful placement of dental implants. By rebuilding the bone, ridge augmentation ensures that your implants have a solid and stable base, increasing their longevity and performance.

Prevents Further Bone Loss

When a tooth is extracted or lost, the surrounding bone begins to shrink due to a lack of stimulation from the tooth roots. Ridge augmentation halts this process by encouraging bone regeneration, which helps maintain the jawbone’s integrity.

Improves Gum and Soft Tissue Support

Healthy gum tissue is essential in supporting your teeth and oral health. Ridge augmentation enhances the surrounding soft tissue, ensuring the gums fit securely and look natural around future restorations, such as dental implants or prosthetics.

Prepares the Jaw for Restorative Treatments

Certain procedures, such as dental implants, are not feasible without adequate bone volume. Bone grafting and ridge augmentation create the necessary support, allowing you to proceed confidently with tooth replacement options.

Prevents Shifting of Adjacent Teeth

When the alveolar ridge shrinks, it can destabilize neighboring teeth, causing them to shift or loosen. Ridge augmentation restores the bone structure, helping to stabilize adjacent teeth and prevent further complications.

Enhances Overall Oral Health

Ridge augmentation improves the functionality and health of your mouth by addressing bone and tissue deficiencies. A stable gum line and jawbone make you less likely to experience gum disease, inflammation, or further bone resorption.

Learn More About Ridge Augmentation Surgery

Dr. Rojas and the team at Northwest Dental Specialists provide expert care in bone augmentation and other periodontal treatments. With a focus on preserving and restoring the supporting structures of the teeth, we use advanced techniques to deliver predictable and lasting results.

If you’ve experienced tooth loss or are considering dental implants, ridge augmentation could be the solution to rebuilding your alveolar ridge and restoring your confidence. Contact Northwest Dental Specialists in Mt. Prospect, IL, at (847) 398-0404 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rojas.