Is Ridge Augmentation Painful?

Ridge augmentation is a dental procedure that can help to improve both the appearance and functionality of one’s teeth following a tooth extraction. It is becoming increasingly popular as a request from patients who want to improve the health of their teeth. However, many patients would like to know: Is ridge augmentation painful? Those who are especially pain-averse may choose to forgo the procedure altogether. If you are considering ridge augmentation, take a look at this guide, which describes some of the details of this procedure.

 

What is Ridge Augmentation? 

Ridge augmentation is a type of bone graft surgery that is performed following a tooth extraction. Most patients will not need to undergo this procedure. However, if the bone surrounding the socket where the tooth has been extracted is sufficiently deteriorated, then a ridge augmentation may be necessary to support one’s teeth structurally.

 

Is Ridge Augmentation Painful?

Ridge augmentation is usually not painful because the dentist will apply local anesthesia to the area surrounding the target site prior to any work being done. That said, you may still expect some mild-to-moderate pain in the recovery period following your procedure. 

Your physician may prescribe some pain medication for you to take during your recovery period to manage the pain. The recovery period following your procedure can be highly variable. In some cases, patients may have to wait several months for their graft to fully integrate with the rest of their mouth.

 

What Occurs During Ridge Agumentation?

The purpose of ridge augmentation surgery is to fill in the deficient bony space that is left by a missing tooth with an artificial bone graft material. Once the grafted material is in place, your oral surgeon will manipulate the surrounding gum tissue to cover the grafted material and assist it with integrating with the rest of the mouth.

It can take several months for your grafted material to fully integrate with the rest of your mouth. Once this integration is complete, your oral surgeon can prepare to place your dental implant.

 

Preparing for Ridge Augmentation

There are several steps you can take to prepare for your ridge augmentation procedure. The following steps may be helpful for you as you prepare: 

• Wear loose and comfortable clothing prior to your appointment.
• Brush your teeth and rinse prior to your procedure.
• Do not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to your procedure.
• Do not smoke tobacco for at least 24 hours prior to your procedure.
• Try not to eat or drink any food immediately preceding your appointment.

During your pre-operative consultations, your dentist may offer additional preparatory advice that can personalize your procedure. You should follow their instructions as closely as possible, as this can help reduce the risk of developing unforeseen complications.

 

Recovering from Ridge Augmentation

To increase your chances of having a successful procedure and post-surgical period, ensure that you follow your oral surgeon’s instructions regarding these periods. As stated before, it may take some time for your graft to fully integrate with the rest of your mouth. In addition, some complications can be experienced by someone during this time, including the following:

• Damage to the surrounding tissues and nerves of the mouth
• Infection
• Unforeseen allergic reaction to the implant materials
• Side effects from anesthesia
• Abnormal bone formation after the procedure

The above side effects are possible but rare. In addition, you can increase your overall chance of having a successful recovery period by refraining from the following activities: 

• Touching the surgical area
• Chewing on the area
• Spitting
• Rinsing your mouth
• Smoking
• Drinking alcohol

There are certain side effects that one should stay wary of that might indicate that there is a medical emergency at play. Such effects include the following:

• Fever
• Swelling and pain that occur beyond the first few days
• Excessive bleeding
• Bleeding that occurs for more than 24 hours

 

 

The Best Dentist in Riverside

Cleopatra Dental of Riverside is considered one of the top dentists in California. If you are interested in discussing your plans for ridge augmentation or sinus lifts with an esteemed professional, contact our office today to set up an appointment.