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What Is Ridge Augmentation?
Ridge augmentation is a bone-building procedure used to restore the shape of the jaw where bone has become thin, uneven, or collapsed.
This often happens after a tooth has been missing for a while. Without the tooth root, the bone in that area can slowly shrink. Ridge augmentation helps rebuild that area so it can better support a dental implant or future restoration.
For many patients, it is an important step in creating a smile that looks natural, feels stable, and has the foundation to last.
You May Need Ridge Augmentation If
You have been missing a tooth for months or years
The jawbone can shrink after tooth loss, especially when the area has been empty for a long time.
You want a dental implant
Dental implants need enough bone height and width to stay stable. Ridge augmentation can help create that support.
Your jawbone looks sunken or uneven
Bone loss can change the shape of the gums and jaw, which may affect how your final restoration looks.
You were told there is not enough bone
If another dentist said an implant may not be possible yet, ridge augmentation may help improve your options.
Helps Restore Jawbone Volume
Restores Jawbone Volume
Helps Improve Implant Support
Enhances Smile Aesthetics
Ridge Augmentation With a Clear Plan, Not Guesswork
At Livewell Dental, ridge augmentation is planned with your final result in mind. We do not only look at the missing bone. We look at your bite, gum line, facial structure, implant options, and long-term smile goals.
Our goal is to help you understand why the procedure may be needed and how it supports a healthier, more confident smile.
The Ridge Augmentation Process
Trusted by Patients Who Want Their Smile Done Right
Patients choose Livewell Dental because they want thoughtful care, not rushed treatment. Ridge augmentation is often part of a larger plan, and we take the time to make sure every step supports the smile you want in the future.
Whether you are preparing for dental implants or rebuilding after tooth loss, our team will guide you with clarity, patience, and precision.
When a tooth is removed or missing, the bone no longer receives stimulation from the tooth root. Over time, the bone in that area can shrink or change shape.
Ridge augmentation is a type of bone grafting. It focuses on rebuilding the width, height, or contour of the jaw ridge where a tooth is missing.
Not every patient needs it. If there is enough healthy bone, a dental implant may be placed without grafting. If the ridge is too thin or uneven, augmentation may be recommended first.
Healing time varies depending on the size of the graft and your treatment plan. Many patients need a few months of healing before moving forward with implant placement.
We use local anesthesia and a comfort-focused approach during treatment. Some soreness and swelling afterward is normal, but most patients find recovery manageable with the instructions provided.
If there is not enough bone, a dental implant may not be stable or may not be possible in the ideal position. Ridge augmentation can help protect your future treatment options.
Not exactly. Ridge augmentation rebuilds the width, height, or contour of the jaw ridge. A sinus lift is a specific type of grafting used in the upper back jaw when more bone height is needed near the sinus.