Ridge Preservation

Overview

Ridge preservation is a procedure to reduce bone loss after tooth extraction to preserve the tooth socket.

Why do you need ridge preservation?

When a tooth needs to be extracted or pulled, ridge preservation is recommended for temporary stabilization and preservation of existing bone in that area. If ridge preservation is not completed at the time that the tooth is removed, future placement of dental implants or bridges can become more expensive, invasive, time consuming and uncomfortable.

Common reasons for tooth extraction

• Irreparable tooth decay
• A cracked or broken tooth
• A re-infected root canal
• Advanced gum disease resulting in bone loss

What happens during ridge preservation procedure?

• Tooth is carefully removed preserving existing bone.
• A protective membrane may be placed before adding graft material.
• Grafting material is stabilized with stitches or a membrane or both.
• Allow approximately 3 to 5 months for healing.

From where does the grafting bone comes from?

For years, bone needed for a ridge preservation procedure had to be taken from a another part of your jaw or body, requiring additional surgery.

But now bone grafting materials such as allografts may be used, with no additional surgery required. During the healing process the graft material is intended to act as a scaffold and be replaced by your own new bone, creating a secure location for the implant to be placed.

What are allografts?

Allografts are bone grafting materials made from donated bone particles that have been refined through the proprietary, multi step sterilization process. This process assures the highest standard of safety and quality with minimal risk of disease transmission. The result is safe, bio compatible grafting material. For over 35 years, allografts have been safely used in more than 3 million procedures.

What are the potential benefits of ridge preservation?

Ridge preservation can essentially minimize the amount of bone loss that occurs after the removal of one or more teeth. Leaving the socket empty after an extraction is likely to lead to deteriorating bone in the jaw, making it more difficult to place an implant later. This procedure is designed to prevent the collapsing of bone and soft tissue in the sockets.

Other benefits of ridge preservation:

• Minimally invasive with minimal discomfort
• Prepares the site for future placement of a dental implant or other tooth replacement, reducing the need for additional grafting.
• Cost effective.
• Maintains the aesthetics of the ridge, especially for the front of the mouth.
• Preserves a natural looking smile.