Bone Graft – Lateral Ridge Augmentation

A lateral ridge augmentation is another common type of bone grafting procedure. It is used for areas of extensive bone loss (Figures 1-2). It is usually performed a few weeks following a tooth extraction. The end goal is the same as socket preservation, which is to help regenerate supporting bone for a future dental implant.

Supporting framework may be temporarily installed over-top the bone graft material to help prevent collapse of the area during healing. (Procedure Figures 3-5). After the graft has healed, the site is re-entered, the framework is removed, and the implant is placed (Figures 6).

The procedure takes approximately two hours. It may be done with local anaesthetic alone, or in combination with sedation (see “Sedation”). Most patients are back at work two days after having had a lateral ridge augmentation procedure. The majority of healing takes place during the first month, and patients may then resume most of their normal eating and oral hygiene practices (see “Post-Operative Instructions”). Dr. Valentin Dabuleanu will see you for a 1-week and 4-week post-operative check.