What to Expect During the Ridge Augmentation Process
Prior to performing a ridge augmentation, we will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, bite, plaque, and bone structure and review your medical and oral health history. It will also likely be necessary to take an X-Ray or other diagnostics to identify underlying issues and determine whether a ridge augmentation is necessary. If it is determined that ridge augmentation is the best treatment option for you, the procedure will typically include the following steps:
- A local anesthetic and/or dental sedation is administered to reduce pain, discomfort, and/or anxiety during the procedure.
- If necessary, a tooth extraction will be conducted, where the tooth will be elevated, then removed using forceps. If necessary, the tooth may also be cut into smaller sections and removed piece by piece.
- Next, the bone is exposed by making a small incision in your gums, after which the graft is placed.
- The area is closed and allowed to heal.
- Once the healing process is complete, the dental implant is placed.
How Much Does Ridge Augmentation Cost?
At Periodontic Associates of Port Huron, we are committed to making sure you understand what the cost of treatment will be and will do everything we can to help you maximize your dental health benefits and explore third-party financing plans if necessary. One of our business coordinators will be happy to conduct a complimentary benefits analysis for you when you are in the office.
If you do not have insurance and are concerned about the cost of periodontal care, you are not alone. We understand that the cost of periodontal treatment is one of the biggest concerns our patients have and are committed to ensuring our patients receive the care they deserve and that the cost of treatment does not prevent this from happening. To learn more about all the financial options we offer, contact our office today.
For your convenience, we accept cash, check, credit cards, and financing.
Aftercare Instructions Following Ridge Augmentation
Due to the prolonged nature of having a tough extraction followed by ridge augmentation and placement of the dental implant, it is essential that you closely follow the aftercare instructions provided by your periodontist. In addition to following these instructions, additional steps you can take to minimize post-procedural issues include:
- Discomfort or pain can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain-relieving medication. Follow recommended dosages, and if prescribed painkillers, take as directed until the prescription runs out.
- Leave the gauze pad in place for three to four hours to control the bleeding. If bleeding persists, contact our office.
- Swelling can be controlled by placing ice packs over the affected area for ten to fifteen minutes at a time. It is important not to leave the ice pack on for too long, as doing so reduces blood flow, which can slow the healing process.
- Avoid using a straw, rinsing, or spitting for 24 hours.
- Do not brush or floss for the first 24 hours. When you resume your oral hygiene routine, practice gentle brushing techniques as the area heals.
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods and follow a soft food diet (yogurt, pudding, applesauce, soup) for at least one week. You may begin to slowly reintroduce harder foods as discomfort subsides and healing progresses.
- Rest as much as possible and avoid strenuous physical activity for at least 48 hours, possibly longer depending on the severity of your case.
If the underlying reason for ridge augmentation is periodontal disease, it is important to improve your level of self-care moving forward to reduce your risk of needing similar procedures in the future. Schedule regular periodontal maintenance every six months or with greater frequency depending upon the severity of your case. While these regular appointments are important, the type of self-care you follow at home is even more important. In addition to brushing and flossing twice daily, eat healthy, avoid use of tobacco, and take efforts to avoid being sedentary and reduce high levels of stress, as both are linked as underlying causes of periodontal disease. By making a commitment to following a consistent oral health routine and living a healthy lifestyle, you will significantly reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease and enjoy improved overall oral and physical health.
Personalized Care and High Quality Services
At Periodontic Associates of Port Huron, we are committed to providing a comfortable, personalized experience built around your individual needs. Our experienced team takes the time to get to know each patient, answer questions, and understand your concerns and treatment goals. We believe that trust and open communication are essential to providing high-quality periodontal care.
If you have questions about ridge augmentation or would like to schedule an appointment, contact Periodontic Associates of Port Huron at (810) 987-1400.
We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.