Ridge augmentation, also known as alveolar ridge augmentation, is a surgical procedure used to restore the natural contour of the gums and jaw after tooth loss. At Dental Park Ghaziabad, Dr. Aakash Arora specializes in this advanced technique to prepare patients for dental implants and enhance their overall oral health and aesthetics.
Understanding Alveolar Ridge Defects
Alveolar ridge defects are commonly seen in partially edentulous patients. These defects jeopardize speech, appearance, and oral hygiene maintenance. These defects affect both soft tissues and bone and are mainly caused by trauma. The defects are more prevalent in middle-aged male patients. It is imperative that the defective ridge is augmented before receiving an implant or a fixed partial denture.
Who Needs Ridge Augmentation?
Ridge augmentation is recommended for patients who:
- Have experienced tooth loss due to extraction, trauma, or periodontal disease.
- Are planning to get dental implants but lack sufficient bone volume.
- Have an unfavorable soft tissue profile that affects aesthetics.
- Want to improve the fit and function of dentures.
- Have experienced significant bone loss in the jaw.
- Want to improve the appearance of their smile.
Denied Implant due to Insufficient Bone?
Why is Ridge Augmentation Necessary?
When a tooth is extracted, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate, leading to a deficiency in both width and height of the alveolar ridge. This can result in:
- Insufficient bone for dental implant placement.
- A sunken appearance in the face.
- Difficulty with denture fit and function.
- Compromised speech and oral hygiene maintenance.
Ridge augmentation rebuilds the bone, creating a stable foundation for implants, restoring facial contours, and improving overall oral health.
Advantages of Ridge Augmentation
- Enables successful dental implant placement with long-lasting results.
- Improves the aesthetic appearance of the jaw and smile.
- Enhances the fit and function of dentures.
- Prevents further bone loss.
- Restores proper oral function, including chewing and speaking.
- Enhances self-esteem and quality of life.
Various Techniques of Ridge Augmentation
Dr. Aakash Arora employs various advanced techniques for ridge augmentation, depending on the specific needs of the patient. Some of the techniques that he uses include:
Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR)
GBR involves the use of bone graft material and a protective barrier membrane to stimulate new bone growth. The membrane prevents soft tissue from interfering with bone regeneration, allowing osteogenic cells to populate the area and promote bone formation.
Block Bone Grafting
Block bone grafting involves transplanting a block of bone from another area of the patient’s body (autogenous graft) or from a donor source (allograft) to augment the ridge. This technique is often used for larger defects where significant bone volume is needed.
Ridge Split Technique
The ridge split technique is used to expand the existing bone to create more width for implant placement. This technique involves making a cut in the ridge and carefully expanding it to accommodate the implant.
Distraction Osteogenesis
Distraction osteogenesis is a surgical procedure that gradually separates bone segments to stimulate new bone growth. This technique can be used to increase both the height and width of the alveolar ridge.
Onlay Grafting
Onlay grafts are indicated when there is excessive bone resorption. Onlay grafts could be either particulate onlay grafting or block onlay grafting. Direct particulate onlay grafting involves the raising of a full-thickness flap at the affected site and giving releasing incisions to aid in tension-free adaptation. Block onlay grafting is performed for either class I or class II ridge defects.
Interpositional Bone Graft
This procedure is indicated for vertical ridge defects with alveolar dimensions of 4-5 mm wherein there is no soft tissue deficit. The idea is to place two different layers of bone grafts and then cover them with a barrier membrane, creating a structure like the cross-section of the bone.
Inferior Alveolar Nerve Transportation
Anatomical structures like the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) are often jeopardized when placing implants, especially if it courses very close to the apices of teeth. To prevent this catastrophe, a procedure called IAN transportation is performed.
Sinus Lift Procedures for Vertical Ridge Augmentation
The posterior maxillary region often poses a problem regarding the placement of dental implants owing to the pneumatization of the maxillary sinus from tooth loss due to caries or periodontal disease. In this instance, a sinus lift procedure is required.
Orthodontic Extrusion
In this method, forces are applied to the periodontally hopeless teeth, which will bring the alveolar bone along with it. Elongation of the tooth in its alveolus causes shifting of gingival and periodontal ligament (PDL) fibers. The result is a coronal shift of bone at the base of the defect as the tooth moves coronally.
The Ridge Augmentation Procedure
- Consultation and Evaluation: Dr. Aakash Arora conducts a thorough examination, including 3D imaging, to assess the extent of bone loss and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Sedation options are also available for anxious patients.
- Incision and Graft Placement: An incision is made in the gum to access the bone. Bone graft material, either autogenous, allograft, xenograft, or alloplast, is placed to augment the ridge.
- Membrane Placement (if needed): A barrier membrane may be used to protect the graft and promote bone regeneration.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures.
- Healing Period: The grafted area is allowed to heal and integrate with the existing bone, typically taking 3-6 months.
- Follow-up and Implant Planning: After the healing period, Dr. Aakash Arora assesses the bone volume and density to determine the readiness for dental implant placement.
Cost of Ridge Augmentation
The cost of ridge augmentation at Dental Park Ghaziabad varies depending on the extent of the procedure and the materials used. Generally, prices range from ₹15,000 to ₹50,000 per site. We offer flexible payment options to make this essential procedure accessible to all our patients.
Time Taken for Ridge Augmentation
The time taken for ridge augmentation depends on the specific technique used and the extent of the bone loss. The procedure itself typically takes 1-3 hours. The healing period can range from 3-6 months, depending on the individual case and the extent of augmentation required.
Recovery and Healing Time
Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days after the procedure. Complete healing and bone integration typically take 3-6 months, depending on the individual case and the extent of augmentation required.
Why Choose Dr. Aakash Arora at Dental Park Ghaziabad?
- Extensive experience in ridge augmentation procedures
- State-of-the-art technology and materials
- Personalized treatment plans
- Comfortable and modern clinic environment
- Excellent patient care and follow-up
Book Your Consultation Today
Take the first step towards restoring your smile and oral health. Contact Dental Park Ghaziabad to schedule a consultation with Dr. Aakash Arora and learn if ridge augmentation is right for you.