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Ridge augmentation is a surgical procedure aimed at recreating the natural contour of your jaw bone and gums.
This procedure is necessary if you have experienced bone loss and are planning on replacing the missing tooth (teeth) with a dental implant(s).
The process involves adding bone grafting material to the alveolar ridge to restore it to the original height and width.
In this blog post, we will explain why your oral surgeon may recommend it and the benefits of this procedure.
Table of Contents
- Why is Ridge Augmentation Recommended?
- Benefits of Ridge Augmentation
- AZ Max Oral Surgery: Your Partners in Oral Health
Why is Ridge Augmentation Recommended?
After a tooth is lost or removed, the alveolar ridge bone begins to resorb or shrink, which can result in bone defects.
This process is known as bone resorption and occurs because there is no longer stimulation from teeth roots to maintain the bone’s structure.
As a result, the jawbone becomes thinner and narrower over time, making it challenging to place dental implants securely.
Dental implants need strong and adequate bone support to be successful, and this procedure can provide the necessary support.
Quick Dental Implant Lesson
Dental implants are small titanium posts, or screws, that are surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial roots for replacement teeth.
The implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a stable and durable foundation for the replacement tooth.
If an implant is placed in an area with inadequate bone support, it can lead to implant failure or complications, such as implant migration or gum recession.
Benefits of Ridge Augmentation
Restoring the alveolar ridge comes with several advantages for patients undergoing dental implant procedures.
1. Improved Dental Implant Success Rate
With adequate bone volume and height, the dental implant can integrate with the jawbone correctly and provide a solid foundation for your new tooth restoration.
If a dental implant is placed into a weak and thin ridge, it is more likely to fail, leading to the need for additional procedures and expenses.
2. Restores Facial Aesthetics
Tooth loss can cause changes in facial structure, such as sunken cheeks or a more aged appearance.
Ridge augmentation helps restore these lost bone tissues, resulting in improved facial aesthetics and a more youthful appearance.
3. Preserves Remaining Teeth
Bone resorption can also affect the adjacent teeth, causing them to shift and become misaligned.
Ridge augmentation helps preserve the remaining teeth by maintaining the structure of the bone, preventing movement.
4. Improved Chewing and Speaking Abilities
Missing teeth can make it challenging to eat or speak properly, affecting overall quality of life.
Ridge augmentation supports dental implant placement, allowing for normal chewing function and speech patterns to be restored.
AZ Max Oral Surgery: Your Partners in Oral Health
Ridge augmentation is a beneficial procedure for restoring the alveolar ridge, providing necessary support for dental implants.
It can improve the success rate of dental implants, preserve remaining teeth, restore facial aesthetics, and improve chewing and speaking abilities.
If you are preparing for dental implants and require a ridge augmentation, we can help. Our skilled oral surgeons at AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons are experienced in performing this procedure and can help you achieve a healthy and functional smile.
To book an appointment at our oral surgeons office in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Show Low or Tempe, call (480) 830-5866.
