What is a Ridge Augmentation?
A ridge augmentation is a common dental procedure often performed following a tooth extraction extraction. This can help recreate the natural contour of the gums and jaw that may have been lost due to bone loss .
Bone, which surrounds the roots of your 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, but sometimes when a tooth is removed, the bone surrounding the socket breaks, and will continue to deteriorate without intervention.
How does a Ridge Augmentation Work?
A ridge augmentation is accomplished by placing bone graft material in the tooth socket, while you receive local anesthesia.
It is often done immediately after the tooth is removed, to avoid the need for a second procedure later. Next, the gum tissue is placed over the socket and secured with sutures.
Dr. Sorensen may choose to use a space-maintaining product over the top of the graft to help restore the height and width of the space created by the tooth and bone loss, and into which new bone should grow. Once the socket has healed, the alveolar ridge can be prepared for dental implant placement.
Why Ridge Augmentation Is Needed
- After tooth loss or extraction, the alveolar ridge bone may shrink or collapse.
- In some cases, the socket heals unevenly or loses volume, making dental implants more difficult or impossible without rebuilding the area.
- Ridge augmentation prevents long-term bone loss and prepares your jaw for future tooth replacement options, including implants, bridges, or dentures.
Why Choose Dr. Sorensen for Ridge Augmentation?
As a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Sorensen has advanced training in complex bone grafting techniques and oral reconstruction. With a focus on comfort, precision, and long-term results, our team ensures every ridge augmentation is performed safely and with minimal downtime.
We use modern materials and regenerative technology to help your body heal faster and more efficiently.
