Losing bone width in your jaw can make dental implants feel out of reach. At The Center for Oral & Facial Surgery in Katy, TX, our board-certified oral surgeons offer ridge expansion to rebuild a thin jaw ridge for a solid implant foundation.
What Is Ridge Expansion?
Ridge expansion, or dental ridge augmentation, is a bone grafting procedure that widens a jawbone ridge that has thinned over time. Dr. Justin Brock and Dr. Christopher Morris expand the bone with expert mechanical techniques, then place graft material to rebuild lost width. This dental implant site preparation gives your jaw the structure implants need.
Ideal Candidates
You may be a good candidate if you have lost teeth and your jawbone has narrowed, making implant placement difficult. Candidates are typically in good health with no untreated gum disease.
The Procedure
After numbing the area with local anesthesia or light sedation, your surgeon carefully expands the narrow ridge using precise mechanical techniques and places bone graft material into the space. The graft is then left to mature and integrate with your natural bone for several months before implants are placed.
Recovery and Results
Mild swelling and tenderness are common for a few days and typically ease with rest. Most patients return to normal routines within a week, while the graft continues healing beneath the surface. Once mature, your ridge has the width and strength needed for a stable implant.
Benefits
This procedure restores bone that would otherwise limit your options, opening the door to implants instead of removable dentures. It also helps preserve facial structure and supports long-term oral health.
Cost of Ridge Expansion
Cost depends on the extent of bone loss and the grafting needed. We’ll review your treatment plan and financing options with you before you decide.
Why Choose The Center for Oral & Facial Surgery
Patients throughout Fulshear and Richmond, TX, trust our Katy-based practice for advanced bone and implant care. Dr. Justin Brock brings over 15 years of experience in jaw reconstruction, while Dr. Christopher Morris, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, has published research on facial anatomy. Both combine digital planning with a calm, thorough approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ridge expansion painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort, managed with local anesthesia. Any soreness afterward usually responds well to over-the-counter pain relief.
How long before I can get implants?
Graft maturation generally takes a few months. Your surgeon confirms readiness with imaging before scheduling implant placement.
Will insurance help cover this procedure?
Coverage varies by plan and medical necessity. We can help verify your benefits and discuss financing options.
Can this be combined with other procedures?
Yes, it's sometimes paired with sinus lifts or other bone grafting procedures. Your surgeon outlines the best plan at your consultation.
Book Your Consultation Now
Ready to rebuild your jaw’s foundation? Schedule your consultation with The Center for Oral & Facial Surgery, serving Katy, Fulshear, and Richmond, TX. Contact us today to book your appointment.
Meet the Experts Behind The Center for Oral & Facial Surgery
Dr. Justin R. Brock
Justin R. Brock, DDS, MD, brings over 15 years of experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery, with a focus on dental implants, bone grafting, and advanced jaw reconstruction. He uses Cone Beam CT imaging and digital scanning to plan each procedure with expertise.
Dr. Christopher D. Morris
Christopher D. Morris, DDS, MD, FACS, is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons with published peer-reviewed research on facial anatomy and jaw reconstruction. He is known for restoring both the function and aesthetics of the mouth and face.
Dr. Matthew Zhang
Matthew Zhang, DDS, is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon with expertise in dental implants, wisdom tooth removal, bone grafting, jaw reconstruction, and management of oral pathology. He is committed to providing safe, compassionate, evidence-based care.
Related Services
Ridge expansion is often the first step toward a successful dental implant. Explore related procedures below, including bone grafting and sinus lift, to see how we build a strong foundation for your smile.
This comprehensive field of care also includes common procedures such as wisdom tooth extractions and dental implant placement, which help restore function, health, and aesthetics to the smile.
