Our bones are living structures that grow and shrink throughout our lives. The jawbone is particularly vulnerable to shrinkage, as it relies on stimulation from the teeth to stay strong. When a tooth is missing, the underlying bone begins to deteriorate almost immediately. At Wheaton Oral Surgery, we can reverse this process through a procedure known as ridge augmentation.Everything You Should Know About Ridge Augmentations
In the mouth, we have two bony structures called alveolar ridges - one in the upper jaw and one in the lower. These ridges contain the sockets that hold your teeth. Because they anchor the teeth, they are especially prone to deterioration, also known as bone resorption, when a tooth is lost. Unfortunately, a dense and healthy alveolar ridge is essential for placing dental implants, which are often the preferred method for replacing missing teeth.
A ridge augmentation is a straightforward procedure used to rebuild the alveolar ridge so it can securely support tooth implants. This is done by placing a bone graft that stimulates the growth of new bone. When possible, we prefer to use the patient's own bone, typically harvested from another part of the body, as it offers the best compatibility and healing potential. When this isn't an option, we may use donor bone from human or animal sources, or lab-processed graft materials.
Why We Recommend Ridge Augmentations
We often recommend ridge augmentation to patients who are undergoing a tooth extraction or who have previously had a tooth removed without receiving a bone graft. Without this step, the alveolar ridge may deteriorate to the point where it cannot support an implant. Even if you're unsure whether you want a dental implant right away, getting a ridge augmentation can preserve your oral health and keep your future treatment options open.
Delaying the procedure and opting for a dental implant later could mean you'll need additional bone grafting, which is often more complex and time-consuming. That's why early intervention, such as ridge augmentation, can make a significant difference in your long-term oral health.
Getting a Ridge Augmentation
Ridge augmentations are a routine procedure performed in our office. For most patients, a local anesthetic is sufficient for comfort. Often, we complete the augmentation immediately following a tooth extraction to prevent bone loss from occurring. The bone graft material, whether your own or a donor source, is placed into the empty socket, and the gum tissue is carefully closed over it.
Recovery is generally smooth, with minimal discomfort. Over the next few months, your body will generate new bone tissue in the area, restoring the strength and volume of the ridge. This process lays the foundation for future restorations, such as dental implants.
Interested in a Ridge Augmentation?
A successful ridge augmentation can make dental implants possible, even for patients with significant bone loss. If your alveolar ridge has deteriorated, Wheaton Oral Surgery can help restore it. We offer advanced procedures like ridge augmentation in Wheaton IL, and also perform bone grafting for dental implants here in Wheaton.
As a leading Wheaton oral surgeon ridge preservation expert, we're here to help you maintain your oral health and rebuild your smile. Call (331) 204-0314 today to schedule your consultation.
