Alveolar Ridge
Pronunciation: al-VEE-oh-lar
The bony ridge of the maxilla or mandible that contains the tooth sockets and provides the foundation for dental implant placement.
Full Definition
The alveolar ridge is the thickened bony margin of the maxilla or mandible that houses the dental alveoli (tooth sockets). Following tooth extraction, the ridge undergoes resorption, reducing available bone for implant placement. In implantology manuscripts, the alveolar ridge is the principal anatomical reference for assessing bone volume and planning implant positioning. Editors should note that 'alveolar ridge' and 'alveolar crest' are related but not identical: the crest refers specifically to the most coronal margin, while the ridge denotes the broader bony structure. Ridges are further described as maxillary or mandibular and may be classified by resorption category using the Cawood and Howell classification.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'alveolar crest', which refers only to the topmost margin. Specify maxillary or mandibular where clinically relevant.
In Context
- "Severe resorption of the alveolar ridge necessitated bone augmentation before implant placement." — Surgical planning report
- "The term 'alveolar crest' was used inconsistently with 'alveolar ridge' throughout the article; standardisation was advised." — Copy-editing annotation