Ridge Augmentation

A ridge augmentation is a dental procedure aimed at restoring the original height and width of the alveolar ridge.

The alveolar ridges are the bony structures that surround the roots of teeth. They provide support to the teeth and help maintain their position in the jawbone.

When a tooth is extracted or lost due to injury or decay, the alveolar ridge can resorb or shrink over time. This can lead to a sunken appearance in the mouth and make it difficult to place dental implants.

The goal of this procedure is to recreate the natural contour of the alveolar ridge, which allows for successful dental implant placement and restores proper function and aesthetics to the mouth.

Understanding Bone Resorption

Bone resorption is a natural process that occurs when there is tooth loss.

When a tooth is extracted, the surrounding bone tissue is no longer stimulated by the tooth root and begins to resorb or shrink. The longer the tooth has been missing, the more severe the bone loss can be.

This can result in a thin or weak alveolar ridge which can make it challenging for dental implants to be placed securely.

Why is Ridge Augmentation Performed?

The primary reason for performing a ridge augmentation is to prepare the mouth for dental implants or for aesthetic purposes.

For a dental implant to be successful and stable, it requires a solid foundation in healthy bone. The implant acts as an artificial tooth root, and it must fuse with the jawbone in a process known as osseointegration.

This integration is essential for the implant to function effectively and withstand the forces of chewing and biting. Without sufficient bone density and volume, the implant may fail to integrate properly, leading to instability or loosening over time.

Additionally, healthy bone ensures that the implant is securely anchored, preventing shifting or displacement that can compromise oral function and aesthetic appearance.

Having adequate bone health is crucial to the long-term success and durability of dental implants.

Candidates for Ridge Augmentation

If you have experienced bone resorption due to tooth loss or periodontal disease, you may require ridge augmentation. 

This procedure may also be recommended if you have a thin alveolar ridge or need to replace multiple teeth in a row.

Your overall health and dental history will be evaluated to determine if you are a suitable candidate for ridge augmentation. Factors such as smoking, diabetes, and certain medications can affect the success of the procedure.

Types of Ridge Augmentation

There are two main types of ridge augmentation: vertical and horizontal.

Vertical Ridge Augmentation

Vertical ridge augmentation involves adding bone graft material to the alveolar ridge to increase its height. 

This method is typically used when there is minimal bone height due to resorption or damage.

The bone graft can be taken from the patient’s own body (autogenous), a human donor source (allograft), an animal donor source (xenografts) or synthetic materials.

The added bone material provides support for the implant and encourages new bone growth, restoring the original height of the alveolar ridge.

Horizontal Ridge Augmentation

Horizontal ridge augmentation aims to widen a narrow alveolar ridge by adding bone graft material to the sides of the ridge. 

This procedure is commonly performed when there is insufficient width for dental implants.

Similar to vertical augmentation, the bone graft material can be taken from different sources. The goal of horizontal ridge augmentation is to create a stronger and wider foundation for the implant to be placed.

What to Expect During Ridge Augmentation

Ridge augmentation is an outpatient procedure performed at our clinic. 

We use local anesthesia and other forms of sedation such as nitrous oxide or IV sedation to ensure your comfort during the procedure.

• The process begins with an incision in the gum tissue, which exposes the underlying bone. Your oral surgeon will then carefully shape and prepare the existing bone to receive the graft material.
• Once the graft is in place, the gum tissue opening is closed and secured with stitches.
• After the procedure, you may experience some swelling, discomfort, and slight bleeding. These are normal and can be managed with prescribed pain medication and cold compresses.

Recovery and Aftercare

For both vertical and horizontal ridge augmentation, the recovery time is typically around 4–6 months. 

During this time, the graft material will fuse with your natural bone, creating a strong and healthy alveolar ridge.

It is essential to carefully follow all post-operative instructions provided by your oral surgeon.

Aftercare Instructions

Diligent aftercare is crucial to ensure successful healing and optimal results. Here are the essential steps to follow:

1. Medication and Pain Management: Take all prescribed medications as directed, including antibiotics to prevent infection and pain relievers to manage discomfort. Avoid aspirin or similar medications unless advised by your oral surgeon, as they can increase bleeding.
2. Dietary Recommendations: Stick to a soft-food diet for the first few days. Ideal options include smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and oatmeal. Avoid hot, spicy, and hard foods that could irritate the surgical site or disrupt the graft material. Stay hydrated but avoid using straws, as the suction can affect the healing process.
3. Oral Hygiene: Maintain oral hygiene by gently rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution (one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day, especially after meals. Avoid brushing the surgical site directly for at least a week. Continue to brush and floss other areas of your mouth as usual, being careful not to disturb the healing area.
4. Activity Restrictions: Rest is vital in the initial recovery period. Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for at least a week post-procedure. Sleep with your head elevated to help reduce swelling.
5. Managing Swelling and Discomfort: Apply ice packs to the outside of your face, in intervals of 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off, for the first 24–48 hours to help reduce swelling.
6. Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up visits with your oral surgeon. These appointments allow your surgeon to monitor the healing process and make any necessary adjustments.
7. Smoking: Smoking delays healing and increases the risk of complications. It is recommended to avoid smoking and tobacco products entirely during the recovery period. This also includes vaping and smoking marijuana.

Risks of Ridge Augmentation

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with ridge augmentation. These include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Failure of the graft to integrate with natural bone

However, these risks are rare and can be minimized by carefully following aftercare instructions and attending follow-up appointments.

Choose Concord Oral Surgery For Ridge Augmentation in Vaughan, ON

We are a leading oral surgery practice in Vaughan, ON, specializing in dental bone grafting and implant placement.

Our experienced oral surgeon, Dr. Robert Barron, DMD, has extensive training and expertise in performing ridge augmentations using the latest techniques and technologies.

We prioritize your safety and comfort, offering personalized treatment plans and sedation options to suit your needs.

If you require a ridge augmentation or are considering dental implants, contact our oral surgery clinic in Vaughan, ON to book an appointment. Call (905) 669-2616 or complete the appointment request form.

Check out our Google Reviews and see what our patients have to say about the treatment they received at our oral surgery office in Vaughan, ON.

FAQs About Ridge Augmentation