What Is Ridge Augmentation?
Ridge augmentation is a bone grafting procedure used to rebuild areas of the jaw where the natural bone has thinned or collapsed following tooth loss, trauma, or long-term bone resorption. When the ridge loses height or width, it can affect both oral health and the ability to replace missing teeth with dental implants, bridges, or dentures.
During this procedure, your oral surgeon carefully reshapes the jaw and places bone grafting material to rebuild the ridge. As the graft heals, it fuses with the surrounding bone tissue, restoring natural strength, contour, and stability. This helps support future restorative options while improving overall oral health and facial balance.
Our Approach to Ridge Augmentation
Our board-certified oral surgeons, Dr. Epstein and Dr. Kim, use advanced technology and biologic materials to restore bone structure and rebuild the natural shape of the jaw.
- Advanced Technology: 3D CBCT imaging provides a detailed view of your bone structure, allowing for precise planning and placement of bone graft material.
- Patient Comfort & Safety: We offer a complete range of sedation options so your experience is calm and comfortable. Exparel may also be used to provide long-lasting pain relief for up to 72 hours after surgery.
- Modern Grafting Techniques: We use high-quality bone grafting materials, including autograft, allograft, and xenograft options. In select cases, custom titanium meshes may be used to support bone regeneration in areas with significant bone loss or deformities.
- Expert Surgical Care: Dr. Epstein and Dr. Kim, perform all ridge augmentation procedures. Their experience in bone grafting and complex bone augmentation ensures precise, long-lasting results.
A Focus on a Comfortable Recovery
Healing and comfort are part of every treatment plan. By combining minimally invasive surgical techniques with advanced biologic materials like PRF (platelet-rich fibrin), we promote faster recovery and stronger bone formation while minimizing swelling and discomfort.
What to Expect
Knowing what happens before, during, and after ridge augmentation helps you feel confident and prepared for your procedure. Our team walks you through each stage to ensure your comfort and understanding from start to finish.
Consultation and Planning
Your visit begins with a 3D CBCT scan to evaluate your jaw bone and determine whether ridge augmentation is needed before implant placement. Your oral surgeon will discuss the procedure, sedation options, and expected healing timeline.
Day of Surgery
Once you are comfortable, bone graft material is carefully placed into the affected area of the alveolar ridge, restoring proper height and width. A protective membrane may be used to stabilize the graft and encourage bone tissue growth.
Healing and Integration
Over the following months, the grafted bone material integrates with your natural bone, creating a stable foundation for future implants or other tooth replacement options. Most patients experience mild swelling and tenderness for a few days, with full healing taking several months depending on the extent of bone loss.
Dental Implant Placement After Ridge Augmentation
Ridge augmentation is often the first step in preparing the jaw for dental implants. Once the graft has been placed, it takes time for the new bone to fully integrate with the existing bone. This process typically takes four to six months, depending on the extent of the graft and your body’s natural healing response.
After the bone has matured and stabilized, your oral surgeon can proceed with dental implant placement. Careful timing ensures that each implant is anchored in strong, healthy bone for lasting stability and predictable results.
We’re Here to Support You
We welcome referrals, second opinions, and patients who want implant treatment from experienced surgeons who combine precision with compassion.
Our practice is in network with Delta Dental, Cigna, Premera, Regence, Aetna, GEHA, and LifeWise. For other dental insurance plans, we are happy to file claims on your behalf to help you receive the maximum reimbursement available.
We also offer convenient financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and Proceed Finance. From consultation through recovery, our administrative team is here to make every step clear and stress-free.
FAQs
What causes bone loss in the jaw?
Bone loss often occurs after tooth extraction, periodontal disease, or trauma. Without stimulation from a tooth root or dental implant, the jaw bone gradually resorbs over time.
Is ridge augmentation painful?
Ridge augmentation is performed using local anesthesia and dental sedation to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Mild soreness and swelling afterward are normal and managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medication.
How long does healing take after ridge augmentation?
Initial healing takes a few weeks, while full bone integration usually occurs within 4–6 months, depending on the amount of bone grafting material placed.
Can ridge augmentation and dental implant placement be done together?
In most cases, ridge augmentation is performed first to rebuild the bone before implants are placed. The graft typically needs several months to heal and integrate before implant placement can be done safely.
Who performs ridge augmentation near me?
Dr. Epstein and Dr. Kim perform ridge augmentation procedures at Green Lake Oral & Facial Surgery in Seattle and JAWNT Surgery in Shoreline, combining advanced technology and precise surgical techniques to restore healthy bone structure and long-term oral health.
