Rebuild Jawbone Structure for a Stronger, Healthier Smile

Ridge Augmentation in Winston-Salem, NC

When teeth are lost or extracted, the jawbone begins to shrink — often changing the shape of the gumline and creating challenges for dental implant placement or prosthetic fit. Ridge augmentation is a proven surgical technique used to rebuild the natural contour of the jaw, restoring strength, appearance, and function.

At Trenton B. Bottoms, DDS, we offer ridge augmentation in Winston-Salem as part of our full-service implant and restorative care. With advanced training in bone regeneration and guided implant surgery, Dr. Bottoms helps patients rebuild their oral foundation and confidently move forward with long-lasting treatment.

What Is Ridge Augmentation?

Ridge augmentation is a specialized type of bone grafting procedure that restores bone and soft tissue where it has been lost following tooth extraction, trauma, or disease. It improves both the width and height of the jaw ridge, allowing for:

  • Successful dental implant placement
  • Improved support for dentures or bridges
  • Natural gum and facial contours
  • Long-term oral health stability

Bone grafting material is placed into the deficient area and shaped to rebuild the jaw ridge. Over time, the graft integrates with your own bone to restore volume and strength.

Why Would You Need Ridge Augmentation?

You may benefit from ridge augmentation if:

  • You’ve had a tooth removed and the bone has resorbed
  • You were told you don’t have enough bone for an implant
  • You want to improve gum contour for a more natural-looking restoration
  • You’re preparing for All-on-Four or implant overdentures
  • You want a long-term foundation for cosmetic or restorative treatment

If you’ve been searching for a dentist near me who can rebuild bone structure and deliver complete implant care in-house, we’re here to help.

What to Expect During the Ridge Augmentation Process

1. Consultation & 3D Imaging

We begin with a thorough evaluation and CBCT scan to determine the extent of bone loss and plan graft placement with surgical precision.

2. Treatment Planning

We’ll design a conservative, customized plan based on the area of concern and your future implant or restorative needs.

3. Bone Graft Placement

Dr. Bottoms places bone graft material into the site, reshaping the ridge. A protective membrane may be added to aid healing and bone integration.

4. Healing Period

Over the next 4–6 months, the graft integrates with your natural bone, rebuilding strength and volume.

5. Follow-Up or Implant Placement

Once healed, the area is ready for further treatment — including implants, crowns, or other prosthetics.

Ridge Augmentation for Dental Implants

Ridge augmentation is often the first step in a long-term implant treatment plan. If your jaw has lost width or height, implants may not be possible until the ridge is rebuilt. By restoring this structure early, we ensure:

  • Better implant integration
  • More natural emergence of crowns or bridges
  • Greater long-term stability and esthetics

We routinely combine ridge augmentation with other procedures like socket preservation and sinus lifts for comprehensive implant preparation.

Why Choose Dr. Bottoms for Ridge Augmentation?

  • Advanced Implant & Surgical Training
    Dr. Bottoms completed a General Practice Residency focused on implantology and bone regeneration.
  • In-House CBCT Imaging
    Our 3D scanning ensures precise planning and successful graft integration.
  • Conservative Surgical Technique
    We minimize discomfort and downtime with careful planning and advanced healing materials.
  • Integrated Implant Care
    Your ridge graft and implant treatment are handled under one roof — with no need for outside referrals or specialists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does ridge augmentation hurt?

No. We use local anesthesia, and most patients experience only mild soreness for a few days after the procedure.

How long does it take to heal?

Most grafts take 4–6 months to fully integrate before implants or restorations can be placed.

Can I get a ridge graft and implant at the same time?

In some cases, yes. If bone quality allows, we can combine procedures. We’ll determine this with your 3D scan.

Will insurance cover ridge augmentation?

Some plans offer coverage for medically necessary grafts. We’ll help verify your benefits and offer financing if needed.

What happens if I don’t restore the ridge?

Without augmentation, bone loss may worsen, and options for implants or stable restorations may be limited in the future.

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Rebuild the Foundation of Your Smile

A strong, healthy jaw is essential to lasting tooth replacement and a confident smile. Whether you’re preparing for implants or restoring lost structure, ridge augmentation offers a safe, effective path forward — with lasting benefits for your oral health.

Call us today at 336-765-8358 or schedule your consultation online to learn more about ridge augmentation in Winston-Salem.