Ridge Augmentation/socket preservation

What is a ridge augmentation?

A ridge augmentation is a common dental procedure often performed prior or at the time of dental implant placement. This procedure helps recreate the natural contour of the gums and jaw that may have been lost due to bone loss from a tooth 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 is 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 may be required for proper dental implant placement so that they can be restored in the optimal position for function and esthetics. Dental implants require bone to support their structure and a ridge augmentation can help rebuild this bone to accommodate the implant.

How is a socket preservation accomplished?

Socket preservation is accomplished by placing bone graft material directly in the tooth socket and secured with sutures.. It is often done immediately after the tooth is removed to avoid the need for a second procedure.  Grafting at the time of tooth extraction prevents extraction related bone loss. Once the socket has healed, the alveolar ridge can be prepared for dental implant placement.

A ridge augmentation or socket graft procedure is typically performed in Dr. Rotwein’s office under local anesthesia. Some patients may also request sedative medication.

In Need of a Bone Graft?

Dr. Rotwein can utilize bone grafts to make your jawbone more suitable for the placement of dental implants, as well as repair defects of the jaws. Contact us today!