Jawbone & Gum Restoration
Ridge Augmentation Treatment
Rebuild lost bone and restore natural gum contours for improved function and esthetics.
Ridge augmentation is a procedure designed to rebuild areas of the jaw where bone and gum tissue have deteriorated after tooth loss, extraction, or trauma. By restoring height and width to the ridge, this treatment improves both appearance and stability—often preparing the area for future dental implants.
Your First Choice for Cosmetic Dentistry
What Is Ridge Augmentation?
After a tooth is lost or removed, the surrounding bone and gum tissue can shrink over time. This may create visible indentations in the gum line and reduce the structural support needed for restorations. Without intervention, bone loss can affect facial contours, bite stability, and long-term oral health.
Ridge augmentation restores the natural shape, height, and width of the jaw ridge by adding bone or soft tissue grafting material to the affected area.
Reasons for Ridge Augmentation
- Recreate the natural contour of the gums
- Increase bone density and structural support
- Prepare the jaw for dental implant placement
- Improve esthetics in visible areas of the smile
How the Procedure Works
Ridge augmentation may focus on soft tissue, hard tissue, or both depending on the extent of loss:
- Soft tissue augmentation A gum graft is used to restore the natural height and thickness of gum tissue.
- Hard tissue augmentation A bone graft rebuilds deficient jawbone to create adequate support for implants or restorations.
Once placed, the grafting material integrates with your natural tissue over time, restoring structural integrity and improving overall stability.
Recovery & Healing
Most patients experience mild discomfort similar to a tooth extraction, which can be managed with prescribed aftercare instructions. Initial healing typically occurs within one to two weeks, while complete bone regeneration may take several months before implant placement can proceed.
At Southland Dental Care, ridge augmentation is carefully planned to restore both health and aesthetics while supporting long-term treatment success.
Ridge Augmentation FAQ
- Is ridge augmentation painful?
- The procedure is performed with local anesthesia. Most patients report mild soreness afterward that is manageable with medication.
- How long does healing take?
- Initial soft tissue healing usually takes one to two weeks, while complete bone regeneration may require several months.
- Do I need ridge augmentation before dental implants?
- Not all patients require ridge augmentation. A consultation with imaging will determine whether sufficient bone and tissue support are present.
- What causes ridge defects?
- Ridge defects commonly result from tooth extraction, trauma, periodontal disease, or long-term missing teeth.
- Is ridge augmentation safe?
- When performed by a trained periodontal specialist, ridge augmentation is a predictable and well-established procedure.
- Can ridge augmentation improve appearance?
- Yes. Restoring gum and bone contours can significantly enhance the natural symmetry of your smile.
- What type of graft material is used?
- Graft material may be synthetic, donor-based, or biocompatible bone substitutes selected according to your individual needs.
- When can implants be placed after ridge augmentation?
- Implant placement typically occurs after adequate healing and bone integration, which may take several months depending on the case.
