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Ridge
Modification
A key
to implant success is the amount and quality of the bone where the
implant is to be placed.
Deformities
in the upper or lower jaw can leave you with inadequate bone in
which to place dental implants. This defect may have been caused
by periodontal disease, wearing dentures, developmental defects,
injury or trauma. Not only does this deformity cause problems in
placing the implant, it can also cause an unattractive indentation
in the jaw line near the missing teeth that may be difficult to
clean and maintain.
To
correct the problem, the gum is lifted away from the ridge to expose
the bony defect. The defect is then filled with bone or bone substitute
to build up the ridge. Your periodontist can tell you about your
options for graft materials, which can help to regenerate lost bone
and tissue.
Finally,
the incision is closed and healing is allowed to take place. Depending
on your individual needs, the bone usually will be allowed to develop
for about four to 12 months before implants can be placed. In some
cases, the implant can be placed at the same time the ridge is modified.
Ridge
modification has been shown to greatly improve appearance and increase
your chances for successful implants that can last for years to
come. Ridge modification can enhance your restorative success both
esthetically and functionally.
©
2000 The American Academy of Periodontology
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