Ridge Augmentation
Build A Strong Foundation For Implants
Strengthen Your Jaw With Ridge Augmentation in Salem
Losing teeth can change more than the appearance of your smile. After the teeth and their roots are gone, the surrounding jawbone can lose volume. Over time, this can alter the appearance of your jaw ridge. It can pose a problem if you want to replace the missing teeth with dental implants. Ridge augmentation in Salem allows us to rebuild the area. Dr. Bickler can restore the bone and tissue to create a more natural ridge contour. You'll achieve the foundation you need for your smile goals.
Choose a Team That Plans Beyond Jaw Augmentation
Dr. Bickler and his team take a thorough approach to preparing your jaw for future treatment. Ridge augmentation is often only one step in rebuilding your smile. We will plan the procedure, taking into account any future restoration steps.
Missing bone does not mean you have missed your opportunity for dental implants. During your consultation, Dr. Bickler can evaluate your jaw ridge and determine whether a ridge augmentation in Salem can prepare your smile for the future.
Careful Technique
Dr. Bickler has experience performing ridge augmentation and other oral surgery procedures. He carefully examines the treatment area and plans the procedure based on the extent of structure that needs to be rebuilt.
Long-Term Planning
Ridge augmentation is often preparation for implants or another restoration rather than the final result. We consider your future treatment when determining how to rebuild the area.
Trusted Referrals
When your jaw is ready for implant placement, we refer you to a trusted oral surgeon for that stage of care. We coordinate treatment so each step works toward the same restorative goal.
Comfort Throughout
Oral surgery can feel intimidating, especially when you already have dental anxiety. We offer sedation options and comfortable amenities to help make your procedure easier to manage.
Clear Guidance
You will understand why ridge augmentation is necessary and what happens afterward. Our team explains your procedure, healing period, future implant steps, and home-care instructions. You will always know where you are in the process.
Common Questions About Ridge Augmentations
Q What is ridge augmentation?
Ridge augmentation is a procedure used to rebuild the jaw ridge in an area where bone and tissue have been lost, often due to a missing tooth. Bone-like material is placed in the area to encourage new growth, creating a stronger foundation for future treatment such as dental implants.
Q Why would I need ridge augmentation?
Ridge augmentation is often recommended when the jawbone in an area of missing teeth has deteriorated too much to support a dental implant. It's also sometimes performed immediately after a tooth extraction. It helps preserve the natural shape of the jaw ridge.
Q Is ridge augmentation safe?
Ridge augmentation is considered a safe, well-established dental procedure. It's performed using careful, sterile techniques. Your dental team will take precautions throughout treatment to ensure your safety and comfort.
Q How long does it take for the jaw to heal after ridge augmentation?
Healing time after ridge augmentation varies depending on the extent of the treatment, but new bone growth typically takes a few months to fully develop. Your dentist will monitor your healing progress. We'll let you know when the area is ready for the next stage of treatment.
Q Does ridge augmentation hurt?
The ridge augmentation procedure itself is performed with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Sedation options may also be available if you'd like additional support relaxing. Some soreness and swelling are common in the days following treatment, similar to other minor oral surgery procedures.
Q Can ridge augmentation be done at the same time as a tooth extraction?
Ridge augmentation can sometimes be performed immediately after an extraction. This procedure helps preserve the shape of the jaw ridge before it has a chance to collapse. Your dentist will evaluate whether this approach makes sense for your specific situation.
Q Will I need a bone graft in addition to ridge augmentation?
Whether you need both ridge augmentation and bone grafting depends on your specific situation. These are closely related procedures that both aim to rebuild the jawbone. However, they may be used in slightly different situations. Your dentist can determine whether one or both are needed based on the extent of bone loss in the treatment area.
Q What happens after my jaw ridge heals?
Once your jaw ridge has healed and developed sufficient new bone, you'll typically be referred to an oral surgeon for dental implant placement. The implant will then fuse with the jawbone over time through a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for your new tooth.
