Ridge augmentation is a specialized bone grafting technique designed to restore the natural contours of the gums and jawbone, which may deteriorate following tooth extraction. This procedure is critical in maintaining the aesthetic appearance of your smile and the structural integrity of your jawbone.
Immediately following tooth loss, the alveolar ridge — the part of the jaw that surrounds and supports tooth roots — begins to recede. Our periodontist may recommend ridge augmentation to help prevent this by filling in the area left by the tooth root, maintaining the shape and density of your jawbone. This makes ridge augmentation a key treatment for those considering dental implants, as this procedure helps ensure a stable base for implant placement. Ridge augmentation also offers aesthetic benefits, as a sunken jawline can affect the overall appearance of your smile and face. By restoring the original dimensions of the alveolar ridge, ridge augmentation helps maintain a more youthful and natural facial structure.
The process involves Dr. Pasquale Malpeso carefully placing bone graft material into the tooth socket or the area where bone loss has occurred. This material may be sourced from the patient’s own body, a donor or made of synthetic substances, depending on your specific needs and preferences. Ridge augmentation can often be performed immediately after a tooth is extracted, which is beneficial as it minimizes the number of surgical interventions a patient undergoes and speeds up the recovery process. However, it can also be scheduled for a later date if more immediate treatment is not possible or preferred.
For more information about ridge augmentation in New York, New York, and how it can benefit you, or to schedule your consultation with our experienced periodontist, please contact our team at 212-838-0090. We are here to ensure that your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile is smooth and successful.