What is Ridge Preservation?

Ridge preservation is a bone grafting technique designed to reconstruct the bone within the socket left by an extraction, helping to maintain the ridge’s structural integrity.

Reasons for Ridge Preservation

Following tooth extraction, your body initiates a natural process of remodeling and repairing the area. This can lead to a significant loss of soft tissue and bone, adversely affecting the quality of the bone foundation necessary for future dental implant placement.

Reconstructing the lost bone can be costly, invasive, and time-consuming. Additionally, since the contours of the gum tissue rely on the support of the underlying bone, a reduction in bone mass can cause depressions or irregularities in the ridge.

What Does a Ridge Preservation Procedure Entail?

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.

Benefits of Ridge Preservation:

Ridge preservation can minimize bone loss after the removal of one or more teeth. This procedure is designed to prevent the collapsing of bone and soft tissue in the sockets.

Leaving the socket empty after an extraction is also likely to lead to deteriorating bone in the jaw. If this is allowed to happen, you will be less likely to qualify for a dental implant—a restorative option that can stimulate bone growth in your jaw as well as prevent collapsing of bone and soft tissues in the empty socket.

Other benefits of ridge preservation:

• Minimally invasive with minimal discomfort.
• Prepares the area for future placement of a dental implant or other tooth replacement.
• Reduces the need for additional grafting.
• Maintains the aesthetics of the ridge.
• Preserves a natural-looking smile.

Recovery from Ridge Preservation

Recovery from this dental surgery is similar to recovery from a simple tooth extraction. Extensive time, however, is required for healing to take place before dental implantation can take place. Depending on the size of the ridge preservation procedure, the patient’s age and healing ability, graft healing typically takes between 3 and 6 months.

Why Choose Leading Edge for Ridge Preservation?

At Leading Edge, we specialize in ridge preservation techniques that help maintain the bone structure after tooth extraction. Our experienced team utilizes advanced materials and precise methods to ensure optimal preservation of the jawbone’s integrity. You can expect personalized care tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a solid foundation for future dental implants or other restorative treatments. Contact us today to learn more about how ridge preservation at Leading Edge can benefit your oral health and overall well-being.