Socket Preservation Procedure

Preserving Your Jaw Bone after Extraction

Removal of teeth is sometimes necessary because of pain, infection, bone loss or fracture of the tooth. The bone that holds the tooth in place (the socket) can be damaged by disease and/or infection resulting in deformity of the jaw after the tooth is extracted. After teeth are extracted, the surrounding bone naturally resorbs and shrinks  quickly resulting in unsightly defects and possible collapse of the surrounding tissues.

These jaw defects can create major problems in performing restorative dentistry whether your treatment involves dental implants, bridges or dentures. Jaw deformities from tooth removal can be prevented and repaired by a procedure called socket preservation. Socket preservation can greatly improve your smile’s appearance and increase your chances for successful dental implants placement.

Several techniques can be used to preserve the bone and minimize bone loss after an extraction. When the tooth is removed, the socket is filled with bone or a bone substitute. It is then covered with gum, artificial membrane, or tissue stimulating proteins that encourage your body’s natural ability to repair the socket. This method, allows socket healing while preventing shrinkage and collapse of surrounding gum and facial tissues. The newly formed bone in the socket also provides a foundation for an implant to restore the missing tooth. If your dentist has recommended tooth removal, be sure to ask if socket preservation is necessary. This is particularly important if you are planning on restoring the missing teeth with an implant.