RIDGE PRESERVATION

Ridge preservation is an effective procedure for treating deformities in the upper and lower jaws.  These deformities can occur as a result of periodontal disease, trauma, injury, wearing dentures, or developmental problems.  Such defects can leave insufficient bone for the placement of dental implants and an additional unattractive indentation in the jaw line adjacent to the missing teeth.

During the ridge preservation procedure, the gum is lifted away from the ridge to fully expose the defect in the bone.  The bony defect can be filled with bone graft material that can help regenerate lost bone or a bone substitute. Finally, the incision is closed and several months of healing will be required.  Depending on the case and type of implant and procedure, the dental implant might be placed during the ridge preservation procedure or when healing is complete; this all depends on the condition of the bone.  Ridge preservation improves the cosmetic appearance, functionality of the mouth, and the chance of enjoying dental implants for many years.

IV Conscious Sedation is available with Dr. Cramer.

Ridge Augmentation is the surgical procedure that aims a increasing the quantity and/or quality of bone in the area(s) of missing teeth.

Ridge augmentation is intended to allow for future dental implant replacement, or to provide better functional and esthetic restorations in the esthetic zone.

Increasing the height and width of bone helps ensure the success and longevity of dental implants.

Dr. Davis and Dr. Cramer can utilize a variety of surgical procedures in ridge augmentation. The surgical procedure will depend on the amount of available bone, the amount of augmentation necessary and patient related factors.

• Guided Bone Regeneration- This procedure involves the use of bone replacement grafts along with biologic collagen membranes that help maintain the shape of the ridge and exclude the oral epithelium from invading the graft.
• Biologic Factors- that are either synthetic or from the patient’s own plasma can be used to enhance the results.

Q: How long does a ridge preservation procedure take?

A: The extraction of the tooth and the placement of the regenerative materials take approximately 60 minutes. Naturally, the exact length of time will vary from case to case.

Q: Will the ridge preservation procedure hurt?

A: Only “novocaine” is necessary to perform a gingival graft. During the visit you will feel nothing once the area has been numbed. When the “novocaine” wears off, there will be some mild discomfort. Medication will be prescribed to control any discomfort you might experience. This procedure will not cause you to miss work, ect

Q: What is the cost of the procedure?

A: The cost of the ridge preservation procedure will vary with the situation. However, your periodontist will ensure this is discussed with you thoroughly before proceeding with any treatment.

Q: How well does a ridge preservation procedure work?

A: The ridge preservation procedure is very predictable. The procedure rebuilds damaged bone, resulting in improved esthetics, continued health of the adjacent teeth, and the establishment of adequate bone for implant placement, if necessary.