Ridge Augmentation
When a tooth is removed, the surrounding jawbone can start to shrink or collapse over time — especially if it’s been missing for a while. Ridge augmentation is a procedure that rebuilds that lost bone and tissue, restoring the natural shape of your jaw. At Prism Oral Surgery & Implants of Summit, we perform ridge augmentation to prepare the mouth for dental implants or to improve overall function and appearance.
Why You Might Need This Procedure
Ridge augmentation is often recommended if:
- A tooth was removed and the bone did not heal properly
- There’s visible bone loss in the jaw or gum recession
- You plan to get a dental implant but need more bone support
- The shape of the jaw has changed after extractions or trauma
The goal is to rebuild what’s missing so your bite, facial structure, and future dental work have the right foundation.
How the Procedure Works
Ridge augmentation involves adding bone graft material to the area where bone has been lost. In some cases, a small membrane is placed to protect the site and help it heal properly.
We use advanced materials and techniques to encourage strong, natural regrowth of the bone — often in combination with other procedures like bone grafting or implant placement.
What to Expect During Treatment
Here’s how we walk you through the process from start to finish:
- Initial Consultation: We take 3D scans of your jaw and identify areas where bone is missing. Dr. Jean Kim, DDS — our Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon — will explain your treatment options and whether ridge augmentation is necessary before placing implants.
- Procedure Day: The procedure is done in-office with local anesthesia. If you prefer, we also offer sedation dentistry or general anesthesia to make it a comfortable experience.
- Healing Phase: The area typically takes a few months to fully heal, allowing the bone to integrate and become strong enough for future treatment.
FAQs
Only if the bone has shrunk or is too thin to support an implant. We’ll evaluate that with 3D imaging.
Most patients heal in 3 to 6 months, depending on the size of the graft and your individual health.
You’ll be fully numbed or sedated during the procedure. Some swelling or mild soreness afterward is normal and manageable.
You’ll follow a soft diet for a few days and return to normal eating once the area has begun to heal.
Building a Strong Foundation for Your Smile
Ridge augmentation helps restore what’s been lost — giving you the structure needed for a strong, confident smile. Whether you're preparing for implants or just want to rebuild your jawbone, we’re here to guide you through it.
Call 908-224-1707 or contact us online for ridge augmentation in Summit, NJ.
