Ridge Augmentation under Existing Fixed Prosthesis: Simplified Technique

A simplified surgical technique for ridge augmentation using a subepithelial connective tissue graft is presented. Ten patients demonstrating moderate Type B and mild Type C ridge deficiencies were treated. Six had existing fixed restorations, while four patients were later restored. The simplified surgical technique uses only one vertical incision with the creation of a "tunnel" between the soft tissue and bone. The subepithelial connective tissue graft, taken from the palate, is inserted into this "tunnel" for ridge augmentation. The technique lends itself to management of ridge defects under existing restorations.