Ridge Augmentation in Implantology - An Insight

The reconstruction of deficient alveolar ridges using vertical and/or horizontal guided bone regeneration techniques allows for ideal implant placement, which is crucial for function and also for esthetically successful outcomes. Unlike in the past, when meeting a patient's functional demands was sufficient, many patients now have greater expectations from their implant restoration. Hence, it is no longer enough simply to restore the edentulous space with a functioning tooth or teeth. Repair of lost ridge contour and prevention of unacceptable esthetic deformities are the goals of current bone augmentation procedures. The dental profession should adopt a proactive preventive philosophy of patient disease management to do all that is possible to prevent the formation of alveolar ridge defects. If the future prosthesis is implant and sufficient bone volume to properly place the implant is absent, techniques like guided bone regeneration (with / without grafts), simple bone grafting (with / without growth factors),sinus floor elevation (for posterior maxilla), orthodontic extrusion ,controlled tissue expansion, distraction osteogenesis can be undertaken.