Ridge Augmentation

What is Ridge Augmenation?

A ridge is an area in the mouth where teeth have been removed. Different ridges have different shapes and sizes. Some ridges are thin and flat, while others are thick and tall. When teeth are removed and a socket preservation graft is not performed, sometimes the area where the teeth were present will collapse and shrink as it heals resulting in a very small, narrow ridge. A ridge augmentation procedure can be completed to maintain or increase the thickness and height of bone in an area. With the proper thickness and height of bone, dental implants can be placed. Dental implants cannot be placed unless there is enough bone height and thickness. Bone grafts purchased from a tissue bank or synthetic bone can be used with a special membrane. The area heals for about 6-9 months. Implants are then placed.

How is Ridge Augmentation Accomplished?

Ridge augmentation is a minor surgery. The gum tissue is gently moved out of the way. The area of deficient bone is prepared to receive the bone graft. Human bone grafts (allografts) are purchased from a tissue bank. The bone is processed so all of the living cells are removed. There is no chance of rejection since there are no living cells in the bone graft. Synthetic bone can also be used. The only tissue banks Dr. Wiland will consider using must be a member of The American Association of Tissue Banks which shows the tissue bank follows strict standards for safe tissue banking. Community Tissue Bank is where human bone grafts are obtained by Dr. Wiland. Bovine or cow bone is sometime used in addition to the allograft. A special membrane is placed over the graft. Small stitches or sutures are placed to allow the site to heal quickly and comfortably. As the area heals for about 6-9 months, your body will naturally make the real bone that holds the dental implant in place.

A ridge augmentation procedure is typically performed in the office by getting numb with local anesthesia. Some patients may also request oral sedation, IV sedation or nitrous oxide in addition, to help make the procedure more relaxing. There are many sedation options to help you relax and sleep through the procedure.

More information is available in the procedure brochure section of this webiste.