When significant bone has been lost, there may not be enough bone to safely or ideally place a dental implant.
Ridge augmentation is a regenerative procedure used to rebuild areas where the jawbone has become too thin or deficient for implant placement.
Dr. Kelleher uses modern guided bone regeneration (GBR) techniques to rebuild deficient areas. Depending on the location and extent of bone loss, treatment may involve bone grafting, barrier membranes, biologic materials (growth factors), or a combination of regenerative techniques. In some cases, the graft is performed before implant placement; in others, bone regeneration and implant placement can be performed at the same time.
The goal is to create a strong, stable foundation for the implant while restoring the natural contours of the jawbone and surrounding tissues. Careful treatment planning is essential, particularly in areas where bone loss affects the position of the future implant or the appearance of the gumline.
What to expect: Soft-tissue healing is usually fast, typically within the first one to two weeks, while the underlying graft material matures over approximately 4–6 months. More extensive ridge reconstruction may require additional healing time before implant placement.
