Ridge augmentation rebuilds the jawbone after bone loss caused by missing teeth. It rebuilds natural contour, strengthens bone, and supports long-term oral health.
What Is Ridge Augmentation?
The bony ridge that supports the teeth, called the alveolar ridge, can shrink or resorb after a tooth is removed. Bone resorption can leave the ridge too narrow or shallow for a future implant or natural-looking restoration.
Ridge augmentation rebuilds the height and width of the ridge with bone graft material. This graft stimulates new bone growth and strengthens the area. It also helps prevent facial sagging that can occur when bone loss changes the jawline over time.
If You’ve Been Told You Don’t Have Enough Bone for Implants, Don’t Give Up
Our periodontists have advanced training and extensive experience in complex implant cases. Even when bone loss makes treatment more challenging, we can often find a solution to help you achieve a stable, lasting smile.
When Is Ridge Augmentation Needed?
Your periodontist may recommend ridge augmentation if you’ve experienced:
- Bone loss after tooth extraction
- Collapsed or uneven ridge shape
- Insufficient bone for dental implant placement
- Bone defects caused by trauma or gum disease
- Aesthetic concerns that affect your smile line
In some cases, ridge augmentation is performed at the same time as tooth extraction to preserve the bone immediately.
Did You Know?
Bone can begin shrinking within weeks after a tooth is removed. Studies show the alveolar ridge may lose up to half its width during the first year without grafting. Ridge augmentation helps preserve both oral health and facial structure for long-term stability.
What to Expect During Treatment
Ridge augmentation is typically a minor dental procedure performed under local anesthesia with optional sedative medication for comfort. Here’s what to expect:
- Site preparation: The area is gently opened to access the affected ridge.
- Bone placement: A natural or synthetic bone grafting material is positioned to restore the missing structure.
- Stabilization: A space-maintaining product, such as a membrane or titanium mesh, may be placed to hold the graft in position while it heals.
- Gum tissue closure: The gum tissue is sutured back over the graft to protect the area during healing.
Over the following months, your body integrates the graft, forming strong, healthy bone that can support an implant or bridge.
Healing and Aftercare
Mild swelling or tenderness is normal after treatment. Your periodontist will provide care instructions and may prescribe antibiotics or a gentle rinse to aid healing.
To protect your results:
- Avoid smoking tobacco or marajuana or vaping, which slows healing and contributes to bone loss.
- Use ice packs and soft foods as recommended.
- Attend follow-up visits to monitor bone formation.
Once the site has healed, your doctor will evaluate the ridge and determine the ideal timing for implant placement or other restorative treatment.
Why Patients Choose Periodontal Associates
For over 50 years, Periodontal Associates has provided advanced bone grafting and implant procedures in Centennial and Aurora, CO. Our periodontists are experts in rebuilding the bone and gum tissue needed for lasting results.
Patients choose us because we:
- Use 3D CBCT imaging and digital planning for accuracy
- Offer personalized treatment plans based on bone quality and goals
- Provide IV, oral, or nitrous oxide sedation for comfortable care
- Collaborate closely with restorative dentists for seamless outcomes
Insurance and Financing
Periodontal Associates accepts most major dental insurance plans and will verify your benefits before your treatment to minimize surprises. Our team provides estimates in advance and helps you understand your coverage.
For any costs not covered by insurance, we offer financing options through CareCredit and Alpheon, making it easier to move forward with the treatment you need.
Learn MoreSchedule a Consultation
Rebuild your jaw for a stronger, healthier smile. To book an appointment at our Centennial office, call (303) 795-5700. For our Aurora office, call (303) 755-4500.
FAQs
What is the difference between alveoloplasty and ridge augmentation?
Alveoloplasty smooths and reshapes the bone after tooth extraction to create an even surface for dentures or to promote proper healing. Ridge augmentation rebuilds missing bone to restore ridge height and width for dental implants or aesthetic purposes.
Is ridge augmentation painful?
The procedure is performed using local anesthesia and, if desired, sedation. Most patients experience mild discomfort that resolves within a few days.
How long does ridge augmentation take to heal?
Healing time varies but typically takes 3–6 months before implant placement. Your doctor will monitor your progress with digital imaging.
Can ridge augmentation prevent facial sagging?
Restoring lost bone helps support facial structure, preventing the sunken appearance that can develop after significant bone loss.
Where can I get ridge augmentation near me?
Periodontal Associates offers ridge augmentation at two convenient locations. Our Aurora office is located at 2900 South Peoria Street, Building D, Aurora, CO 80014, and our Centennial office is at 2101 E. Arapahoe Rd., Suite 101, Centennial, CO 80122. Both offices provide the same advanced technology, compassionate care, and expertise in bone grafting and implant procedures.
