Ridge Augmentation in Northville
Ridge augmentation rebuilds the natural contour of the jaw after bone loss from a tooth extraction or other cause, restoring the width and height needed to support a future dental implant.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Ridge Augmentation?
The alveolar ridge is the bone that surrounds and supports the roots of your teeth. When a tooth is extracted, it leaves behind an empty socket in that ridge. Usually, the socket heals on its own as bone and tissue fill back in. But when the bone surrounding the socket is damaged and can’t heal properly, the ridge’s original height and width continue to shrink over time — which can make future implant placement more difficult or affect the appearance of your smile.
A Technique Refined Over 30 Years
Dr. Zakaria developed a minimally invasive approach to ridge augmentation over three decades ago, in 1993, and has continued refining it ever since, achieving a success rate of over 97%. Rebuilding the ridge isn’t always medically necessary, but it’s often essential for successful dental implant placement or for restoring a natural, aesthetic appearance to the jawline.
How the Procedure Works
Ridge augmentation is typically performed right after tooth extraction to avoid the need for a separate procedure later. Bone graft material is placed directly into the empty tooth socket, and the gum tissue is repositioned over it and secured with sutures. In some cases, Dr. Zakaria uses a space-maintaining product over the graft to preserve the socket’s height and width while new bone grows in. Once the site has fully healed, the ridge is ready for implant placement.
The procedure is typically performed in-office under local anesthesia, and some patients choose additional sedation for comfort — talk to us about dental anxiety management options if this applies to you.
Other Bone Grafting Options
Depending on where bone loss has occurred, Dr. Zakaria may recommend sinus augmentation for the upper back jaw, or socket preservation performed immediately after extraction to prevent this bone loss before it starts. Learn more about the full range of options on our Bone Grafting for Implants page.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is ridge augmentation needed?
It’s typically recommended when bone loss around an extraction site prevents the ridge from healing back to its natural height and width, especially if a dental implant is planned for that area.
Is ridge augmentation the same as a bone graft?
Ridge augmentation is a specific type of bone grafting procedure focused on restoring the alveolar ridge’s shape after tooth loss.
Is ridge augmentation painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and additional sedation is available for patients who prefer it. Some soreness during recovery is normal.
Can ridge augmentation be done at the same time as a tooth extraction?
Yes, it’s often performed immediately after extraction to avoid the need for a separate procedure later.
Is ridge augmentation always necessary after a tooth extraction?
Not always. It’s typically recommended when the ridge’s original height and width need to be restored for implant placement or aesthetic reasons.
How successful is ridge augmentation?
Dr. Zakaria’s minimally invasive technique, developed and refined since 1993, has achieved a success rate of over 97%.
How do I know if I need this procedure?
Schedule a consultation at (734) 542-9904 so Dr. Zakaria can evaluate your jawbone and determine whether ridge augmentation is right for your treatment plan.
