When a patient loses a tooth, or multiple teeth, and does not replace them with dental restorations, the jawbone begins to deteriorate where the tooth socket once was. This can make it difficult, and in some instances impossible for a patient to use dentures, or receive dental implants down the road. A ridge augmentation after a tooth extraction involves placing a bone graft directly into the empty socket where the tooth's roots once were, to help recreate the natural shape of the gums and jaw that may have been lost following tooth extraction. During a consultation with our board-certified dentist, Dr. Todd McCracken, at Laser Smile Studio in Denton, TX, patients can learn more about the benefits of this procedure. Patients may be candidates for a ridge augmentation procedure after losing one or more teeth, to help prepare for future dental restorations. 

Ridge augmentation procedures have been proven to benefit the overall health of a patient's smile as well as to improve their appearance and boost their confidence. In addition, the ridge augmentation procedure:

• Recreates a natural bone and gum ridge
• Improves aesthetic appearance
• Increases stability for long-term function and oral health
• Reduces gaps between the gums and dental restorations

A ridge augmentation procedure is most commonly performed in our facility under local anesthesia. Sedation options are available and will be discussed with patients beforehand. During the simple surgical procedure, bone graft material will be placed into the exposed tooth socket. This may be done immediately following an extraction. Following the placement of the graft material, the gum tissue will be carefully placed over the socket and the wound will be closed, commonly with sutures. After a healing period, the ridge is considered ready for dental restorations such as dental implants. 

The specific aftercare treatment will vary from person to person depending on their unique situation. Following a patient's ridge augmentation procedure, Dr. McCracken and our Laser Smile Studio dental team will discuss wound care, as well as oral hygiene routines. Antibacterial mouthwash and pain medications may be discussed to prevent infection and to relieve discomfort. Should a patient become worried during the healing process, our staff will be available to answer questions and address concerns. 

At Laser Smile Studio, we are focused on helping our patients achieve the best functioning, best looking, healthiest smile possible. If you feel that your smile and your health would benefit from a ridge augmentation procedure, or you would like to gather more information about the treatment, we invite you to give us a call today. We look forward to speaking with you and can't wait to assist you on your dental health journey.