These deformities are often caused by periodontal disease, dentures, developmental defects, injury or trauma. They can make it difficult for patients to clean or maintain their oral health and can cause an indentation in the jaw line near the missing tooth/teeth, creating an unpleasant aesthetic for many patients. Since ridge augmentation fills in empty cavities, patients with a broken or damaged alveolus may also benefit from this procedure, as it can normalize the ridge, contour and keep healthy bone around the adjacent teeth.
Ridge augmentation consists of utilizing a material to provide a growth scaffolding for new bone to be formed on. Occasionally, a special material (De Novo Bone) will cause a spontaneous center of bone growth that will contribute to the overall structure of the augmentation area. An important area of concern during the augmentation is the maxillary sinus space. This space can be “borrowed” by turning the space into bone for the support of dental implants. When all, or most, of the alveolar bone (bone that supports the teeth) is missing, most patients experience a compromised level of function. Implants can bring patients a new level of enjoyment.
It has been shown to greatly improve the jaw’s appearance and increase the chances of successful implants that can last for years to come. For patients with upper or lower jaw deformities, ridge modification can enhance both the appearance and the function of dental implants. Many patients experience minimal discomfort throughout this procedure and healing time.
While it is normal for patients to be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or periodontist for this procedure, Dr. Starr is a surgical and restorative dental implant specialist who carries the skills and education needed to provide all treatments for dental implants. His patients can complete all dental implant treatments in one office, by one provider, all under the care of an oral implantology specialist.
