When Is a Bone Replacement Graft for Ridge Preservation Necessary?
Losing a tooth is a cosmetic concern, but it can also affect your jawbone and cause long-term complications. One of the best ways to prevent problems from a missing tooth is a procedure called ridge preservation with a bone replacement graft.
If you need a tooth extraction or you’re considering future dental implants, it’s important to know what this entails. Find out what ridge preservation is, when a bone graft is necessary, what causes bone loss to happen, and what the procedure involves.
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"For most people with moderate to severe bone loss risk, a bone graft for ridge preservation is still the gold standard in treatment."
What Is Ridge Preservation?
Ridge preservation is a dental procedure performed immediately after a tooth extraction to maintain the natural shape and volume of the jawbone. When a tooth is removed, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate in a process known as resorption. Over time, the bone loss can make it difficult or even impossible to place a dental implant without extensive bone grafting.
Your periodontist may want to place a bone graft for ridge preservation directly into the socket left behind after the extraction to prevent this from happening. The graft encourages your body to regenerate bone in the area, preserving the “ridge” of your jawbone for future dental restorations like implants or bridges.
When Is a Bone Replacement Graft for Ridge Preservation Necessary?
A bone replacement graft for ridge preservation is typically necessary if:
You have a tooth extraction, especially in an area critical for future dental implants, like your front teeth or molars
You plan to get a dental implant but aren’t ready for immediate placement.
A tooth is extracted due to infection or trauma, which can accelerate bone loss.
You want to maintain your facial structure and prevent changes in your appearance from resorption.
You need to support dentures or other restorations that require a stable jawbone foundation.
Delaying ridge preservation may lead to the need for more complex and costly procedures in the future, which is why acting fast is so important.
Common Causes of Bone Loss
Bone loss in the jaw can be caused by:
Tooth extractions without socket preservation
Periodontal (gum) disease, which destroys the supporting bone structure
Infection or abscess around a tooth or in the jaw
Trauma or injury to the mouth or jaw
Congenital defects or developmental issues
Dentures that don’t fit properly can wear down the bone over time
Understanding the underlying cause can help your periodontist recommend the best course of treatment for bone regeneration and long-term oral health.
What to Expect from Ridge Preservation
A ridge preservation graft is typically performed right after a tooth is extracted. Here’s what the procedure and recovery generally look like:
Tooth extraction: The affected tooth is fully removed to minimize damage to the surrounding bone.
Graft placement: A bone replacement graft, which can be synthetic, autogenous, allogenic, or xenogenic, is placed into the socket.
Barrier membrane: Sometimes a membrane is placed over the graft to protect it and guide tissue regeneration.
Stitches and healing: The area is sutured and healing begins. Over time, your body will integrate the graft material and generate new bone.
Most people experience minimal discomfort and are able to resume normal activities within a few days. Full integration of the graft may take several months, but it prepares the area for future implants or restorations.
The bone replacement graft for ridge preservation cost can vary depending on the type of graft material used, the complexity of the case, and your location. At Central Texas Periodontics, we provide personalized treatment plans and transparent pricing to help you plan your care.
Are There Alternatives to Bone Grafts?
In some cases, alternatives to bone grafts may be a good option, such as:
Immediate dental implant placement: If the bone is still intact and healthy at the time of extraction, an implant can be placed right away to stimulate the bone and prevent loss.
Socket sealing techniques: These involve using soft tissue grafts or collagen plugs to seal the extraction site and minimize bone resorption.
All-on-4 dental implants: This technique can replace a full arch of teeth with four implants to reduce the need for bone grafting.
Orthodontic solutions: In some cases, shifting neighboring teeth can be used to close the gap and preserve bone.
For most people with moderate to severe bone loss risk, a bone graft for ridge preservation is still the gold standard in treatment.
Preserve Your Smile with Central Texas Periodontics
If you’ve recently had a tooth extraction or are planning to, don’t wait to ask about ridge preservation. At Central Texas Periodontics, we specialize in bone graft ridge preservation and personalized periodontal care to protect your smile and restore your confidence. Our experienced team will walk you through every step of the process and help you choose the best treatment option. Schedule a consultation today!