Reconstruction of Localized Horizontal Maxillary Ridge Defect with Subepethelial Connective Tissue Graft

The goal of all prosthetic treatment is to obtain a satisfying functional and esthetical oral status. In a fixed bridge, the pontic frequently give the impression that they rest on the top of the ridge rather than emerge from within the alveolar process & lack marginal gingiva & interdental papillae. Black triangles, which almost always interfere with dentofacial esthetics, are present in the embrasure area between the pontics & between the abutments & the pontics. In other words, it may be difficult or impossible to produce a fixed prosthesis which truly restores the esthetics & function of the natural dentition. The localized alveolar ridge defect refers to the volumetric deficit of the limited extend of the bone & soft tissue within the alveolar process. Such type of ridge defect can be corrected by surgical ridge augmentation that can be accomplished by the addition of either soft or hard tissues. This case describes a procedure of surgical connective tissue augmentation of a localized deficient alveolar ridge in the maxilla, followed by fixed partial denture enhancing the esthetics, function & health.