Preventing Jawbone Loss: Alveolar Ridge Preservation at Schaefer Dental Group in Lansing, MI
In a healthy mouth, teeth are anchored firmly into the jawbone. When teeth are lost, however, a process of bone resorption (melting away) begins to take place almost immediately. Bone loss can also occur if you have severe periodontal (gum) disease. When bone loss in the jaw is advanced, it can cause changes to your facial appearance, and may even complicate replacement of the missing teeth. For those who want to get dental implants, the preferred method of tooth replacement, it’s necessary to have a certain amount of healthy bone to anchor the implant in place. That’s why, when tooth loss occurs, it’s important to take proactive steps to prevent bone loss from becoming a problem. In many cases at Schaefer Dental Group in Lansing, this involves having a minor surgical procedure called an alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) graft.
The Importance of the Alveolar Ridge
The alveolar ridge is the part of the jawbone that holds the teeth. In a perfect world, a dental implant would be placed into the jaw right after tooth extraction; but that isn’t always possible. If a tooth is taken out and nothing is put back in its place, the bone underneath it will quickly decrease in both width and height. Over time, that can make it more difficult or impossible to place an implant in that location, underscoring the need for a proactive Lansing dentist.
How Alveolar Ridge Preservation Works
Fortunately, the process of bone loss can often be prevented. One technique that is used to preserve the bone in an area after a tooth is extracted is called socket grafting, or an alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) graft. This involves placing bone-grafting material into the socket immediately after the tooth is removed. The graft material provides a sort of “scaffolding” upon which your body can build new, healthy bone. The graft material will eventually be replaced by your own natural bone, which will preserve the size and shape of the alveolar ridge for future tooth replacement.
What to Expect During Your ARP Procedure
Alveolar ridge preservation is a minor surgical procedure that is normally done in the dental office, right after the tooth is removed. After the tooth is extracted, the empty socket is gently cleaned and disinfected. Then, bone-grafting material is carefully placed into the socket. The graft material is normally covered with a specialized membrane to protect the site and aid in the healing process. Following the procedure, you may experience some minor discomfort in the area for a day or two; this can usually be controlled by over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. You will be asked to return to the Schaefer Dental Group office for follow up visits so that the healing of the area can be monitored. When your jawbone has completely healed—generally in 4 to 6 months—it will be strong and stable enough to receive a dental implant.