Many people are missing one or more teeth, which can impact their lives in several ways. Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Dental implants offer a viable solution to replace missing teeth and restore a natural-looking smile. However, before placing an implant, individuals might require a ridge augmentation to ensure the jawbone is strong and thick enough to support the implant.
This article explores what ridge augmentation is, its benefits beyond just supporting implants, and how it contributes to successful restorative dentistry.
What is Ridge Augmentation?
Ridge augmentation is a surgical procedure that involves adding bone to the jawbone at the site of a missing tooth. This procedure is performed when the jawbone has shrunk or deteriorated after tooth loss, making it unable to support a dental implant. During the procedure, the dentist or oral surgeon grafts bone from another area of the patient's mouth or uses synthetic bone substitutes to rebuild the ridge.
Benefits of Ridge Augmentation
Besides providing a strong foundation for dental implants, ridge augmentation offers other significant benefits:
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Preserves jawbone health: Tooth loss leads to bone resorption, which can affect the facial structure. Ridge augmentation helps prevent further bone loss, maintaining the jawbone's shape and integrity.
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Improves facial aesthetics: A thin jawbone can result in a sunken appearance. Ridge augmentation restores the missing bone, offering a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing facial contour.
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Provides additional support for dentures: Individuals with ill-fitting dentures due to bone loss can benefit from ridge augmentation. The augmented bone creates a stable base for the denture, leading to improved comfort and function.
Ridge Augmentation and Restorative Dentistry
Ridge augmentation plays a vital role in successful restorative dentistry. It provides a strong foundation for dental implants, which serve as artificial tooth roots. These implants support various prosthetic options, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures, restoring both function and aesthetics.
Conclusion
While ridge augmentation is often associated with dental implants, its benefits extend beyond implant placement. It contributes to maintaining jawbone health, improving facial aesthetics, and enhancing the stability of dentures. As a key component of restorative dentistry, ridge augmentation plays a crucial role in restoring optimal oral health and a beautiful smile.
Disclaimer
This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
About |Dental Implants Glenview, IL | Glen Perio At Glen Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we provide the best services for patients, when it comes to implant and periodontal treatments. Call our experts here! Glen Perio - Dr. Joshua Hassan, 2640 Patriot Boulevard Suite 140, Glenview, IL 60026; 224-488-3392; glenperio.com; 1/2/2026; Related Phrases: dental implants Glenview IL;
Many people are missing one or more teeth, which can impact their lives in several ways. Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Dental implants offer a viable solution to replace missing teeth and restore a natural-looking smile. However, before placing an implant, individuals might require a ridge augmentation to ensure the jawbone is strong and thick enough to support the implant.