Extraction & Socket Preservation

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Careful management of extraction sockets after tooth extraction prevents bone loss and provides a better cosmetic outcome for tooth replacement.

Following extraction, our doctors may advise that you undergo socket preservation at the time of extraction which can preserve the socket/ridge and minimize gum and bone collapse. There is less shrinkage and a more aesthetic tooth replacement for either a dental implant crown or fixed bridge around the replacement teeth.

Technique of socket preservation:

Several techniques can be utilized to preserve the bone after extraction and minimize bone loss adjacent to the socket. The tooth is always removed as atraumatically as possible to preserve as much of the native bone as possible. The socket is then filled with a bone graft to encourage your body to repair itself by regenerating lost bone and tissue.  This site is often covered with a membrane that holds the bone in place.

The gum tissue is then sutured and healing of ~4-6 months is allowed to occur.  X-rays or three dimensional images will be taken to assess the healing of the site prior implant placement to assess the volume of bone.