Ridge Augmentation
What is a Ridge Augmentation?
A ridge augmentation is a common dental procedure often performed following a tooth extraction. This procedure helps recreate the natural contour of the gums and jaw that may have been lost due to bone loss from a tooth extraction, or for another reason.
The alveolar ridge of the jaw is the bone that surrounds the roots of teeth. When a tooth is removed an empty socket is left in the alveolar ridge bone. Usually this empty socket will heal on its own, filling with bone and tissue. Sometimes when a tooth is removed the bone surrounding the socket breaks and is unable to heal on its own. The previous height and width of the socket will continue to deteriorate.
Rebuilding the original height and width of the alveolar ridge is not always medically necessary, but may be required for dental implant placement or for aesthetic purposes. Dental implants require bone to support their structure and a ridge augmentation can help rebuild this bone to accommodate the implant.
How is the procedure Accomplished?
A ridge augmentation is accomplished by placing bone graft material in the tooth socket. It is often done immediately after the tooth is removed to avoid the need for a second procedure later. Next, the gum tissue is placed over the socket and secured with sutures. Dr. Mullendore or Dr. Von Kaenel may choose to use a space-maintaining product over the top of the graft to facilitate new bone growth. Once the socket has healed, the alveolar ridge can be prepared for dental implant placement.
A ridge augmentation procedure is typically performed in Dr. Mullendore or Dr. Von Kaenel’s office under local anesthesia. Some patients may also request sedative medication.
East Columbus Oral Surgery Specialists
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Staff and doctor were great! Surgery went good, few struggles with recovery but she is doing well
- Virginia P
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- Brett W
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It all went well
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Great facility, great staff
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It was all good
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The Doctor is very, very knowledgeable and compassionate. The staff efficent.
- Barbara K
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Thanks to everyone here. Everyone here is very kind and considerate.
- Tamara C
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I was nervous at first but they kept me calm throughout the whole procedure. I didn't feel not one thing and it was very quick. This is the best place to go to get your wisdom teeth removed. Excellent job !
- Staciana D
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It was so great that the doctor fit me in when I needed a consult. Other places I called had a few weeks wait. I needed to be seen right away and you all made it happen. Thank you so much!!
- Randa G
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I was very pleased with all the staff and Dr. Everyone was very caring and made sure that I was comfortable and that all my questions were answered. I even received a wellness check up call to see how I was doing from the Dr..
- Melissa M
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Easy to get an appointment and everyone is friendly and accommodating.
- Taby A
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It has been an excellent overall experience with this doctor's office
- Amy H J
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Good
- Karen D
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Dr. Mullendore has done tooth extractions on me twice; both times were quick, relatively painless, and successful. Samantha and the other assistants/staff are always a pleasure to interact with.
- Bryan C
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Great experience
- Jessica P
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Dr. Mullendore is amazing! He was great at explaining everything and really put me at ease with a procedure I was very anxious about. This was the second oral procedure he has done for me and I would definitely return if I needed any others.
- Sara H
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- Robin T
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Called today at 12:45 and got an followup appointment at 2:00. What more need I say?
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Every visit was very nice
- Evelyn P