What to Expect from Our Ridge Augmentation Course: A Hands-On Learning Experience for Dentists
If you’re a dentist looking to sharpen your skills in ridge augmentation, the 2-Day Hands-On Ridge Augmentation Course at Restored Smiles is designed with you in mind. Whether you’re just starting out in implant dentistry or looking to refine your grafting techniques, this course offers a structured, experience-rich environment that takes you from theory to confident clinical execution.
Learn the Why Before the How
We start with the scientific rationale behind ridge augmentation. You’ll understand when, why, and how ridge defects occur—and why proper augmentation is essential for long-term implant success. We break down:
- Bone biology and healing stages
- Indications for ridge preservation vs full augmentation
- The impact of buccal plate loss on implant stability
Our evidence-based lectures ensure you’re not just copying a technique—but understanding the principles behind it.
Get Hands-On with Pig Jaw Grafting
One of the biggest highlights of the course is hands-on practice using pig jaws, which simulate real-life surgical conditions. You’ll get comfortable with:
- Flap design and management
- Autograft vs allograft material handling
- Suturing techniques that promote optimal healing
- Managing soft tissue around the graft site
We supply all instruments and materials—you just show up ready to learn.
Explore the Role of PRF in Ridge Augmentation
Many of our attendees are excited to learn about Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) and its role in accelerating healing. During the course, we demonstrate how PRF is incorporated into grafting protocols, especially:
- Mixing PRF with bone grafts (Sticky Bone)
- Placing membranes for added stability
- Managing soft tissue with CGF-based fibrin glue
Our course makes sure you’re not only exposed to these regenerative tools—you get to apply them.
Understand Graft Material Options
We walk through the different types of grafting materials, their pros and cons, and ideal indications:
Material Type | Common Use Cases | Key Benefits |
Autograft | Small defects, immediate cases | Osteogenic, no immune response |
Allograft | Ridge preservation, sockets | Readily available, predictable |
Xenograft | Long-term scaffolding | Slower resorption, great for volume |
Alloplast | Minimal cases or socket fillers | Cost-effective, no biologic source |
Learn from Real Clinical Cases
Throughout the weekend, you’ll review real patient cases treated by our faculty. You’ll see:
- Step-by-step ridge augmentation procedures
- Healing progress with and without PRF
- Final implant placement post-graft
- Common complications and how to avoid them
Photos and videos accompany each case to help connect theory with reality.
Taught by Experts Who Still Practice
Our instructors aren’t just speakers—they’re active clinicians with years of real-world experience in complex implant procedures. You’ll learn from doctors who know the challenges you face in your own practice and are committed to helping you overcome them.
Training at Restored Smiles Ranch, Lompoc, CA
Your training takes place at the beautiful Restored Smiles Ranch in Lompoc, California. We believe the environment plays a role in how well you learn—and our location blends world-class education with a calm, distraction-free setting.
Who Is This Course For?
This course is ideal for:
✅ Dentists placing implants who need to manage compromised ridges
✅ CE-seekers who want practical, hands-on training
✅ General dentists exploring surgical expansion
✅ Any clinician wanting to increase treatment options and confidence
Hear from Our Alumni
“I walked in with hesitation. I walked out confident. This course fills the knowledge gap and gives you a chance to practice real surgical techniques in a safe setting.”
— Dr. Susan M., DDS
Last Course Date: May 23–24, 2025
Limited seats are available to ensure one-on-one guidance.
🔗 Ridge Augmentation Hands-on Course
Final Thoughts
Ridge augmentation doesn’t have to be intimidating. At Restored Smiles, we break it down step-by-step and give you the tools, support, and hands-on training to master this critical implant procedure.