Ridge Augmentation in Valdosta, GA
Correcting Jawbone Collapse After Tooth Loss
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone does not stay the same. Over time, the bone that once supported that tooth begins to shrink inward and downward, changing the shape of the ridge itself. At Valdosta Family Dentistry, we perform ridge augmentation in Valdosta, GA to correct this collapse and restore the structure needed for healthy function, appearance, and future dental restorations.
This procedure is not cosmetic. It is structural correction.
📞 Call (229) 333-8484 to schedule a ridge evaluation.
What Happens to the Jaw After a Tooth Is Lost
Tooth roots stimulate the jawbone during chewing. When a tooth is removed and not replaced promptly, that stimulation disappears.
The Resulting Changes Are Predictable
- The ridge becomes narrower and shorter
- Bone collapses toward the extraction site
- Soft tissue follows the bone inward
- Facial contours begin to change
- Restorations no longer sit in ideal positions
Once this collapse occurs, simply “placing an implant” or fitting a prosthetic is no longer straightforward.
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What Ridge Augmentation Actually Corrects
Ridge augmentation focuses on rebuilding the shape of the jaw ridge, not just adding bone.
Clinical Goals of Ridge Augmentation
- Restore ridge width so teeth are not placed too far inward
- Rebuild ridge height for proper bite alignment
- Recreate natural contours that support gums and facial structure
- Allow restorations to sit where natural teeth once were
This is why ridge augmentation is often required after bone loss has already occurred, not before.
Signs You May Need Ridge Augmentation
Ridge defects are not always obvious without imaging, but common indicators include:
- A visible dip or collapse where a tooth is missing
- Dentures that feel unstable or shift
- Implants previously ruled out due to “not enough bone”
- A sunken appearance in the lips or cheeks
- Difficulty achieving a natural-looking bridge or implant crown
How Ridge Augmentation Is Performed
Step 1: Structural Assessment
- Evaluation of ridge shape and soft tissue position
- Imaging to assess ridge height, width, and angulation
- Planning based on future prosthetic positioning
Step 2: Ridge Reconstruction
- Controlled access to the collapsed ridge
- Placement of regenerative material to restore contour
- Use of protective membranes when indicated
- Stabilization of the site to support proper healing
Step 3: Healing & Remodeling
The body gradually remodels the area, replacing the scaffold with living bone and stabilizing the ridge in its corrected form.
Ridge Augmentation vs. Other Procedures
This procedure is often misunderstood or mislabeled.
- Not ridge preservation (that is done at extraction)
- Not standard bone grafting (which focuses on volume)
- Not cosmetic contouring
Ridge augmentation is performed after collapse has occurred, specifically to correct deformity that affects restoration success.
Safety, Standards, and Patient Care
At Valdosta Family Dentistry:
- All procedures follow CDC and OSHA infection control standards
- Local anesthesia is used for comfort
- Sedation options are available
- Post-procedure instructions are clear and supportive
- Patients are treated with the same care we would provide our own family
Serving Valdosta and Surrounding Communities
Patients visit us for ridge augmentation from:
- Valdosta
- Hahira
- Lakeland
- Lowndes County
- Surrounding South Georgia areas
Insurance, Payments & Planning
We believe patients deserve clarity before committing to treatment.
- Insurance claims submitted on your behalf
- Clear explanation of benefits and limitations
- Payment plans available when needed
- Accepted payments include cash, check, and major credit cards
Call (229) 333-8484 to discuss your options.
Ridge Augmentation FAQs
Why can’t I skip ridge augmentation and place a restoration anyway?
Because restorations placed on collapsed ridges often fail aesthetically and functionally. Teeth end up positioned too far inward or downward, creating hygiene issues, uneven bite forces, and unnatural appearance. Ridge augmentation corrects the foundation before those problems occur.
Is ridge augmentation always required after tooth loss?
Not always. If ridge preservation was performed at the time of extraction, augmentation may not be necessary. However, once significant collapse has occurred, augmentation is often the only way to restore proper anatomy.
How long after ridge augmentation can restorations be placed?
This depends on the extent of correction needed, but most patients require 3–6 months of healing before implants or other restorations can be safely placed.
Is ridge augmentation painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and sedation can be used if needed. Post-procedure discomfort is typically mild to moderate and managed with standard care instructions.
Will ridge augmentation improve how my face looks?
Yes — by restoring underlying support, ridge augmentation can reduce the sunken appearance that often follows tooth loss, helping support lips and soft tissues more naturally.
Schedule a Ridge Augmentation Consultation in Valdosta, GA
If a missing tooth has changed how your mouth looks or functions, correcting the ridge may be the key to long-term success.
Valdosta Family Dentistry
📍 2935 N Ashley St Ste 130, Valdosta, GA, 31602
📞 (229) 333-8484
Restore structure first. Restore confidence next.