Ridge Augmentation for Dental Implants in Murfreesboro, TN
Ridge augmentation for implant sites is performed by Dr. Joanne Gaydos-Daniel and Dr. Sang Hun “David” Kim.
In our practice we are often asked to provide dental implants in sites where teeth have been missing for many years. During those years there is often a loss of jaw bone. Without the stimulation from the teeth our bodies repurpose the minerals in the bone for use elsewhere. Unfortunately this can result in an area without sufficient bone and soft tissue to place the dental implant for maximum function and good esthetics. A ridge augmentation procedure can restore the bone and tissues which have been lost, allowing for the best results for our patients. And the new dental implants stimulate the bone, much as the tooth roots did, so that it does not go away.
The Procedure
The ridge augmentation procedure is done in our office with local anesthetic for complete patient comfort. Sedation for anxiety relief is always available. The site to be reconstructed is exposed and bone grafting material, from a bone bank (which avoids the need to a second surgical site) is placed. This safe material is combined with concentrated growth factor (CGF) which is created from a small amount of your blood drawn at the time of surgery. The blood is spun down and the CGF is combined with the graft material. The result is faster healing and a more predictable result for our patients. The site is covered with a protective membrane and gently closed with a few stitches. You are seen for several short visits during the first few weeks to insure good healing and the site is typically ready for implants within 4-6 months. Most patients return to work the next day after the ridge augmentation procedure.
What is ridge augmentation?
Ridge augmentation rebuilds a jaw ridge that has become thin or sunken after teeth have been missing for months or years. Without a tooth root to stimulate bone, the ridge often shrinks in width and height—leaving too little bone for a secure, natural-looking implant. Grafting restores volume so implant placement can succeed in Murfreesboro and Middle Tennessee.
Who performs ridge augmentation for implants
When ridge augmentation prepares an implant site, care is provided by Dr. Joanne Gaydos-Daniel and Dr. Sang Hun “David” Kim. They coordinate grafting with your overall implant plan at the implant consultation.
When a thin or sunken ridge needs help
Long-standing missing teeth
Years without a tooth often leave a narrow or concave ridge that cannot hold an implant of ideal size or position.
Esthetics & function
Adequate bone and soft tissue support a stable implant and a crown that looks and cleans like a natural tooth.
Prevention vs. rebuild
If a tooth is still present, ridge preservation at extraction can limit collapse. Augmentation rebuilds what has already been lost.
The procedure is done in-office with local anesthesia; sedation for anxiety relief is available. Donor bone-bank material is commonly used (often with concentrated growth factor from a small blood sample) so a second surgical site for harvesting your own bone is frequently avoided. Healing typically takes several months before implant placement.
Ridge augmentation FAQs
Why is my ridge thin after missing teeth?
Without a tooth root, the jaw remodeled and lost mineral volume. The longer the gap sits empty, the more width and height can shrink—making implants harder without grafting.
Is ridge augmentation the same as ridge preservation?
No. Preservation grafts the socket at extraction to limit collapse. Augmentation rebuilds a ridge that has already thinned. Ask about preservation before planned extractions whenever an implant is likely later.
Is sedation available?
Yes. Local anesthesia is always used for comfort; sedation options can be discussed if you have dental anxiety.
How long until I can get an implant?
Most grafted ridges need several months of healing so new bone can mature before implant placement. Exact timing depends on defect size and your health.
Who should I see for an implant-site ridge graft?
Dr. Gaydos-Daniel or Dr. Kim evaluate implant-site bone with exam and 3D imaging and explain whether augmentation, sinus work, or another approach fits your plan.
Related: Ridge Preservation · Your Implant Consultation · Bone Grafting · Sinus Lift