Particulate bone (small bone particles) and tenting device are the most common materials utilized for this procedure. The tenting device creates the desired ridge shape (bone thickness and/or height) that will be sufficient for future implant placement. The bone particles are placed between the space created by the tenting device and existing bone structure.  Then, gum is stretched to cover the tenting device and bone particles completely. During the healing period, the tenting device prevents the gum growing into the bone graft area and maintains the desired ridge shape.  Approximately 6 months of healing period is required for your body to convert the bone particles into your own bone.  At the time of implant placement, the tenting device is removed and exposes the newly regenerate bone.  The rebuilt bone ridge has proper thickness and height to accommodate implant.

Following diagrams are illustration of the Ridge Augmentation Procedure

The ridge is severely resorbed after teeth are removed

The ridge is too thin to accommodate dental implants

Small tenting screws are inserted

Bone particles with PRP are placed around the tenting screws

Resorbable membranes cover the bone graft

In some situations, pieces of bone can be obtained from patient. In this diagram, the bone is harvested at the patient’s chin region

These bone pieces (block) can be screwed to the bony ridge

Tenting screws are removed after healing period between 6 – 9 months

Implants are inserted and completely surrounded with bone