Call

Northwest Oral Surgeons

menu

Location

Located inside the St. Luke’s building near the local urgent care facility.

Located inside the St. Luke’s building near the urgent care facility.

636-978-6967

Ridge Augmentation in O’Fallon, MO

Ridge augmentation rebuilds an area of the jaw that is too narrow, too short, or uneven for the planned dental treatment. The procedure can prepare a site for an implant or improve the contour beneath a denture or other prosthesis.
Dr. Maryann L. Udy uses examination and three-dimensional imaging to define the defect and select a grafting approach that supports the final restorative goal.
636-978-6967
Oral surgery consultation discussing treatment options with a patient

When Ridge Augmentation May Be Recommended

A ridge can change after tooth loss, infection, periodontal disease, trauma, or a difficult extraction. The defect may be limited to one tooth site or extend across a larger section of the jaw.

Ridge augmentation is considered when the existing contour will not support the intended implant position or prosthesis. The recommendation is tied to a specific restorative plan rather than to the appearance of the X-ray alone.

How the Procedure Is Planned

Dr. Udy identifies the dimensions and location of the deficiency and reviews nearby anatomy. Graft material is placed to rebuild the selected area and can be protected with a membrane or other stabilizing technique.
The graft material and surgical design vary with the defect. Before treatment, Dr. Udy will explain the source of the material, the planned incision, implant timing, and the follow-up needed to assess healing.
636-978-6967

Implant Timing After Ridge Augmentation

A dental implant can sometimes be placed at the same visit when enough native bone is available for stability. Larger defects usually require graft healing before implant placement.

The timeline is an estimate. The next phase begins after Dr. Udy examines the area and confirms through follow-up imaging, when needed, that the rebuilt ridge can support the plan.

Protecting the Rebuilt Ridge

Follow instructions for diet, hygiene, medication, and activity. Avoid pressure from chewing or a removable appliance on the grafted area unless our office has approved it.
If you wear a temporary denture, it may need adjustment before or after surgery. Call us if it rubs the site, if swelling or pain worsens unexpectedly, or if you have questions about healing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ridge Augmentation

No. Socket preservation is performed in a recent extraction site to help maintain the ridge. Ridge augmentation rebuilds a defect that already exists or requires more extensive reconstruction.

Sometimes. The decision is based on how much stable native bone is present and whether the implant can be positioned correctly.
The material is selected for the size and type of defect. Dr. Udy will review the planned source and any supporting materials before treatment.
It may. A removable appliance should not place damaging pressure on a new graft, so the restorative dentist may need to adjust it.

Schedule a Ridge Evaluation

Call Northwest Oral Surgeons at 636-978-6967 to schedule a ridge evaluation and coordinate the grafting sequence with your restorative dentist.
Call: 636-978-6967