Your Choice For Specialized Periodontal Treatment
As a Harvard University and Columbia University trained periodontist in Marin County, CA, Dr. Michael Seda offers a wide range of periodontal and dental implant services to Marin County and San Francisco, CA. We treat referred and non-referred patients in a peaceful, modern setting, and are committed to partnering with all of our patients throughout their treatment. We are committed to exceeding expectations, and provide the highest level of dental care, to achieve the ultimate goal of optimal oral health for all of our patients
Ridge Augmentation Procedure
Ridge augmentation is often used to reestablish your jaw’s natural contour. In many cases, after a tooth is extracted, the jawbone starts to weaken and deteriorate to the point of recession. The socket, once supported by the removed tooth, shrinks in height and width. An indentation in the gums or jawbone where the tooth once sat can develop in many cases. This is because when a tooth is missing, a patient’s bite pressure is not exerted on the jaw bone. This lack of pressure on the bone results in shrinkage of bone over time.
It is imperative that patients see their dentist to replace a tooth after it falls out so that the jaw bone does not decline too much too quickly. When patients wait too long and the jaw bone deteriorates too much, your periodontist will recommend ridge augmentation to halt and reverse this process.
At Marin Contemporary Perio and Implant Concepts, we offer a wide range of periodontal and dental implant services. We treat referred and non-referred patients in a peaceful, modern setting, and are committed to partnering with all our patients throughout their treatment. We are committed to exceeding expectations and providing the highest level of dental care to achieve the ultimate goal of optimal oral health for all of our patients.
If you are scheduled to have a ridge augmentation procedure, or if you have any questions about the procedure, please contact our staff who will be happy to answer any questions or help you set up an appointment.
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Ridge Augmentation Procedure
During the ridge augmentation procedure, your dentist will place soft gum tissue or hard bone tissue to a section of the mouth that needs to be managed. This surgical technique augments the bone or gum tissue of the section in the mouth for functionality and cosmetic purposes.
After the bone gains greater width, height, or both, a dental implant will have more stability in the jaw bone, which will allow it to thrive successfully. Your dentist may recommend the ridge augmentation procedure for strictly aesthetic concerns, or in some cases, to secure implants in place if a tooth is missing or has been extracted.
There are two primary types of ridge augmentation procedure types: Soft Tissue and Hard Tissue.
If undergoing a soft tissue procedure, which is typically done for aesthetic reasons and to improve the cleanliness of the site, your dentist will numb the area before the procedure begins. Your periodontist will then make an incision to expose the site. Next, they will obtain a soft tissue graft from the roof of the mouth or a substitute for soft tissue, and insert the graft. They will then stitch the affected area to begin the healing process.
Before a patient can undergo a dental implant placement, a hard tissue graft may be required. If so, the area will be numbed before the procedure begins. Next, your periodontist will make an incision and lift the gum away to reveal the defected bone. The bone graft your dentist will use will be secured from either another area within your mouth or from another source. Once the graft is in place, your gum tissue will be repositioned and sutured over the graft.
Post Ridge Augmentation Surgery
Every ridge augmentation experience will vary from patient to patient, but it is possible it could take up to one year to fully recover from your procedure. Be sure to discuss your recovery plan with your periodontist so you can have a clear understanding of what steps you will need to take to continue improving your oral health.
Following your ridge augmentation procedure, you will want to avoid hard foods, as they can impact the stitching and potentially slow down the healing time. It is also a good idea to avoid creating any unnecessary pressure to your mouth, such as sipping through a straw or smoking. It is also important to be aware that it is not uncommon for patients to experience difficulty chewing and talking following their ridge augmentation procedure.
Once you have completed the recovery process, the most important thing you can do following your procedure is to continue to practice good oral hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice daily and for at least two minutes each time and continue flossing regularly. If you have not yet, talk to Dr. Seda or your dentist about a recommended antimicrobial mouth rinse.
Along with these important at home care practices, the best thing you can do to continue enjoying your healthy smile is to schedule regular visits every six months. During these routine checkups, your periodontist can conduct deep cleanings and monitor the overall state of your oral health, catching issues before they develop. By maintaining these habits, you will be well on your way to preventing additional issues from developing in the future.
Contact Marin Contemporary Perio & Implant Specialists
We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form.
High Quality Periodontal Care You Can Trust
When you come to Marin Contemporary Perio and Implant Concepts, you can expect a friendly and professional dental team. Dr. Seda will listen carefully to your dental goals and provide a custom treatment plan that works with your budget and needs. We want you to fall in love with your smile again, so all our services are performed with the patient in mind. We want you to feel comfortable in the dental chair, and to feel confident in our services.
At Marin Contemporary Perio and Implant Concepts, we aim to provide cutting edge perio and implant solutions in a comfortable and relaxed environment, where patients feel we put them first. Scheduling an appointment for ridge augmentation is the first step towards being confident in your smile once again. To set up an appointment, please contact us today at (415) 482-9901.