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Ridge Augmentation in Houston TX
What Is Ridge Augmentation?
After a tooth is removed, the bone that used to support it can start to shrink as the area heals. That change can flatten the gumline, affect how your smile looks, and make it harder to replace the tooth later. In many cases the socket fills in naturally, but if the bone is thin, damaged, or the area doesn’t heal the way it should, you may lose the shape and support you need.
Ridge augmentation is a way to rebuild that lost contour in the gums and jaw. It restores the natural shape of the ridge and strengthens the area so it can support a future restoration. This is especially important if you’re considering a dental implant, since implants need healthy, stable bone to stay secure long-term. By rebuilding the ridge first, we can help create a stronger foundation and a more predictable result for whatever replacement option you choose.
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What Are the Benefits of a Ridge Augmentation?
Ridge augmentation helps rebuild lost bone and tissue so your mouth has the support it needs for tooth replacement and a natural-looking smile. It’s often recommended when someone wants to move forward with dental implants, a dental bridge, or another restoration and needs a stronger, more even foundation. By restoring the shape of the gum and jaw area, ridge augmentation can improve long-term function and help the final results look and feel more like real teeth.
How Does Ridge Augmentation Work?
Ridge augmentation is often done the same day a tooth is removed to help protect the shape of the jaw and keep the site strong for a future tooth replacement. After the extraction, we place a graft in the socket to support new bone as your body heals, which can reduce the chance you’ll need a second procedure later.
We then cover and secure the area so it can heal in the right position, and in some cases we add a space-maintaining layer to help preserve the height and width of the ridge. You’ll need a healing period before moving forward with a dental implant, and local anesthesia is typically used to keep you comfortable throughout the visit.
Your Ridge Augmentation Recovery Timeline
Healing time depends on how much bone and tissue needed to be rebuilt after the extraction. For most patients, recovery takes a few weeks while the area strengthens and new bone begins to form. After your procedure, our doctors will walk you through a clear after-care plan so you know exactly how to protect the area at home.
During recovery, we recommend sticking to soft foods at first, then slowly adding firmer foods back as you feel comfortable. Avoid straws and smoking, since suction and pressure can disrupt healing. Keep brushing and flossing as normal, just be gentle around the treated area. Once you’re fully healed, you’ll come back in so we can talk through the best tooth replacement option for your smile.
Find out more?
If you are interested in finding out more about ridge augmentation and how this procedure may benefit you, contact Dentiq Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in oral surgery, and love to help patients achieve the smile of their dreams. Let our team help restore your confidence with a beautiful and natural looking smile.
