RIDGE AUGMENTATION
(growing new bone where teeth already lost)


Tooth loss can have a devastating effect on
bone mass!


Over a period of time, the jawbone shrinkage associated with missing teeth atrophies or is reabsorbed. This often leaves a condition where there is poor quality and quantity of bone suitable for placement of dental implants.

In these situations, most patients are not candidates for placement of dental implants.

We now have the ability to grow bone where needed. This gives us the opportunity to place implants of proper length and width. It also gives us a chance to more effectively restore esthetic appearance and functionality, whether a tooth or teeth are to be restored with a fixed bridge or implants.

Case Studies

Patient A

Comments:

Before treatment-missing teeth #’s 6-8 resulting in severe loss of bone thickness
Creating a thin, flat ridge. Ridge grafting planned as illustrated in the next photo.

Comments:

After treatment – bone graft placed one month ago to enlarge ridge to its natural size and shape before implants placed.




Patient B

1) After treatment – bone graft placed to enlarge ridge to its natural size and shape to receive implants.

2) After treatment – larger view of photo on left.

3) After treatment -with bone graft to enlarge ridge to its natural size and shape as shown in photos 1 and 2.
Patient wearing a temporary bridge until site healed completely to receive implants. Permanent crowns planned which will restore this patient’s front teeth to total health, appearance, and function.




Patient C

Different patient – after treatment another example of a bone graft to enlarge ridge to its natural size and shape. This procedure will regenerate the bone to its original size and shape as was present before teeth were lost. Implants to be placed after site completely healed.





Patient D

Fig. 1 Before

This class 1 ridge defect was the result of a tooth lost due to trauma.

Fig. 1 After Ridge Augmentation, new bone enlarged the ridge to it's natural size and shape.

Final healing provides for sufficient ridge bulk to fabricate a natural - looking bridge.



Dr. Louis Poulos is a specialist in dental implants and periodontics . Dr. Poulos' practice is located in San Jose CA, and he treats patients from all over the San Francisco Bay Area.

Please call today to schedule your periodontic consultation: (408) 356-9366.