Edentulous ridge augmentation. Part II.

Edentulous ridge augmentation has evolved from an attempt to control progressive atrophy of both denture-bearing bone and soft tissue. Preprosthetic surgery to reverse these undesirable conditions should only be attempted after other methods, such as proper denture construction, proper patient compliance, and patient management have been unsuccessful. Also a thorough evaluation by both a prosthodontist and an oral surgeon is required. Prosthodontically, the surgical procedure should produce the following features: (1) enlargement of the area of bony support, (2) improved contour of the ridge for denture stability, and (3) elimination of the displacing action of muscle attachments on the complete denture. Ideally we would like to combine all of these distinct features to arrive at the goal of optimum denture retention. The oral surgeon must also be aware of these principles, and in essence, determines the immediate post-surgical results. However, the oral surgeon is also limited by specific patient factors such as systemic conditions, oral health maintanence, and finances. He must recognize these and determine which surgical methods would give the best denture retention and patient service. It is in this context that the prosthodontist and oral surgeon must work together to facilitate total patient care.