Reshape Your Gums and Jaw With Ridge Augmentation

Ridge augmentation is a dental procedure you might consider if you’ve lost teeth and are noticing changes in the shape of your gums and jawbone. When a tooth is removed, the natural ridge of your jawbone can deteriorate, altering the contours of your face and mouth. In this situation, ridge augmentation is a relevant treatment option to enhance the appearance and create a solid foundation for future dental work, such as dental implants. At Dion Health Services, our skilled dental professionals offer this transformative periodontal procedure.

What Is Ridge Augmentation?

Ridge augmentation is a dental procedure performed to rebuild the natural contour of your gums and jaw. After tooth loss or extraction, the bone supporting your teeth may collapse or resorb, leading to an indented appearance on your jawline. This can impact both your oral function and aesthetics. It can also prevent you from having dental implants placed.

Ridge augmentation is typically performed for one or more of the following reasons:

  • To enhance the appearance of your dental arch
  • To prepare a site for future dental implants
  • To ensure the stability and health of surrounding teeth

Ridge augmentation is typically completed in stages, especially if you plan to proceed with a dental implant. Once the jaw and gums are correctly contoured, dental implants can be more securely placed, giving you back your smile and functionality. Your unique condition and treatment plan will determine the specifics of your ridge augmentation procedure.

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What to Expect During Your Ridge Augmentation Procedure

If you’re considering ridge augmentation, you will first have a detailed consultation with your oral surgeon. Preparation for the procedure includes an examination and discussion of your dental history, current medications, and any allergies you may have.

During the procedure, local anesthesia is typically administered to ensure your comfort. Depending on your case, sedation may be offered as well. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the procedure:

  • Initial Incision: A small incision will be made in the gum tissue where the augmentation is needed.
  • Graft Placement: Bone graft material will then be placed in the required areas. This graft may be synthetic or natural bone.
  • Graft Stabilization: Next, the graft material will be secured with a membrane to encourage proper healing.
  • Closure: Finally, the incision will be sutured closed to start the healing process.

Postoperative care is crucial for successful ridge augmentation and will include the following:

  • Pain management will typically involve prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection.
  • During your recovery, it’s important that you do not disturb the surgical site. You must also
  • follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding oral hygiene.

Swelling and minimal bleeding are normal after the procedure and should subside. It’s essential that you follow all postoperative instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

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Why Choose Dion Health Services for Ridge Augmentation?

When your dental health requires ridge augmentation, selecting the right provider is crucial. At Dion Health Services, we offer a unique combination of expertise, technology, and versatility that sets us apart from other clinics. Choosing us for your ridge augmentation means opting for reliable, advanced, and compassionate care. Your procedure will be handled with professionalism and a focus on delivering the best possible outcomes for your dental health.

Frequently Asked Questions Ridge Augmentation

What should one expect before and after undergoing ridge augmentation?

What is the average recovery time following a ridge augmentation procedure?

What factors contribute to the success rate of ridge augmentation?

What should one expect before and after undergoing ridge augmentation?

Before ridge augmentation, your dental professional will evaluate your oral health to ensure suitability for the procedure. You may need imaging tests to guide the planning. After the procedure, you can expect some swelling and discomfort, which are managed with medications prescribed by your dentist. Adherence to postoperative care is crucial for healing.

What is the average recovery time following a ridge augmentation procedure?

Recovery time varies by individual but typically ranges from a few days to a week for initial healing. Complete bone integration and soft tissue healing may take several months. Your dentist will advise you on how to support your recovery and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

What factors contribute to the success rate of ridge augmentation?

Successful ridge augmentation is influenced by factors such as the quality and quantity of the graft material, your overall oral hygiene, and the absence of infection or smoking, which can impede the healing process. Working with a qualified periodontal professional like those on our team at Dion Health Services will significantly increase the likelihood of having a successful, complication-free procedure.

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