Are you having problems with some of your teeth, the degree of which suggests dental extractions and tooth replacements are your best solution? If so, you may have heard us mention ridge preservation as a means of keeping your jaw prepared and safe throughout your smile journey. For a better understanding of what it is and its purpose, your oral surgeon would like to offer an introduction.
What Is A Ridge?
The ridge is the structure within your mouth that projects outward, along which your teeth are positioned. You have a top and bottom ridge, which are covered in gum tissue. Beneath the tissue exists tissue layers, such as bone tissue, as well as ligaments.
Why Is Tooth Loss Problematic?
Your oral surgeon explains that when you lose teeth, the jawbone tissue that helps support your teeth may become resorbed into your body (the absence of teeth gives your body the “idea” that the tissue is no longer needed to support teeth).
What Can I Do?
Your oral surgeon offers something called ridge preservation, which you may receive if your tooth loss it the result of extracted teeth. Preservation typically occurs soon after extraction. Since the resorption of bone may begin quite quickly after you lose your teeth, this treatment will help you maintain the strength of your jawbone tissue. As a result, if you plan on receiving dental implants, you will be ready with a healthy jawbone for placement (rather than deteriorated tissue that will then require grafting to rebuild the tissue).
Protect Your Jaw To Protect Your Implant Candidacy
When you’re having teeth extracted with plans for dental implants, remember that we can help you protect your jawbone health. Schedule the time you need in Santa Rosa, CA by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery at 707-545-4625 to schedule your visit today.