If you have been told you lack enough bone for dental implants, a ridge augmentation can help.
At Old Orchard Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, Dr. David Barack and Dr. Chander Gupta perform expert bone grafting to prepare you for dental implant treatment.
A ridge augmentation rebuilds the bone in your jaw that has been lost due to tooth extraction, injury, or gum disease. This procedure creates a strong foundation for dental implants and helps restore the natural contour of your gums and jaw.
We proudly serve patients from Skokie, Evanston, Chicago, and surrounding communities.
What is a ridge augmentation?
A ridge augmentation is a common dental procedure often performed following a tooth extraction. This procedure can recreate the natural contour of the gums and jaw that may have been lost due to bone loss as a result of a dental extraction, or for another reason.
The alveolar ridge of the jaw is the bone that surrounds the roots of 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, filling with bone and tissue. Sometimes when a tooth is removed, the bone surrounding the socket breaks, and it unable to heal on its own. The previous height and width of the socket will continue to deteriorate.
Rebuilding the original height and width of the alveolar ridge is not medically necessary, but may be required for dental implant placement, or for aesthetic purposes. Dental implants require bone to support their structure, and a ridge augmentation can help rebuild this bone to accommodate the implant.
How is a ridge augmentation accomplished?
A ridge augmentation is accomplished by placing bone graft material in the tooth socket. 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. Barack or Dr. Gupta 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.
FAQs
Does a ridge augmentation hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the surgery. Most patients report that post-operative discomfort is mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain medication. Dr. Barack or Dr. Gupta will make sure you are comfortable throughout the process.
How long does recovery take?
Initial healing takes about one to two weeks. You may have some swelling and minor discomfort during this time. The bone graft itself will take several months to fuse with your jawbone before an implant can be placed. Dr. Barack or Dr. Gupta will give you a clear timeline during your consultation.
Am I a candidate for a ridge augmentation?
Most adults with missing teeth and insufficient bone for implants are candidates. Dr. Barack or Dr. Gupta will evaluate your bone structure using 3D imaging during your consultation. They will discuss your options and create a personalized treatment plan.
How long do the results last?
The bone graft creates a permanent foundation for your dental implant. With proper care and good oral hygiene, your implant can last a lifetime. The graft material integrates with your natural bone and becomes a permanent part of your jaw.
Can a ridge augmentation be done at the same time as an extraction?
Yes. In many cases, the ridge augmentation can be performed immediately after the tooth is removed. This avoids the need for a second procedure later. Dr. Barack or Dr. Gupta will recommend the best approach for your specific situation.
What is the difference between a ridge augmentation and a sinus lift?
A ridge augmentation rebuilds bone in the upper or lower jaw where teeth have been lost. A sinus lift is a specific type of bone graft for the upper back jaw, where the sinuses are located. Both procedures create a strong foundation for dental implants. Dr. Barack or Dr. Gupta will recommend the right procedure for your needs.
Get Prepared for Dental Implants
Do you need to replace missing teeth but don’t have enough jaw bone? Get a ridge augmentation in Skokie, IL. To learn more about this procedure, call our office at (847) 750-3373.