Socket Preservation

When having a tooth extracted, it’s often recommended to have a socket preservation bone graft performed simultaneously. After the tooth gets removed, the dentist places the grafting material directly into the socket in place of the tooth’s roots. Bone grafting products come from many sources, including demineralized animal bones and synthetic materials.

Regardless of its origin, it looks like small white particles approximately the size of a grain of salt. It creates a place within the socket for your natural bone to grow and heal.

Risks of Not Having Socket Preservation Bone Graft

Without this procedure, a dry socket can form after a tooth extraction, causing significant discomfort. Bone levels may continue decreasing, making the tooth replacement process more challenging. A bone graft helps prevent this by filling the open hole once the tooth is removed.

A simple socket preservation bone graft following an extraction is a safe and effective procedure. Patients do not need a follow-up appointment for this procedure.

After a Socket Preservation Graft

After a bone grafting procedure, the mouth should heal within a few weeks. You can mitigate discomfort post-treatment by avoiding anything irritating the site, such as drinking through a straw or eating hard, crunchy foods. Practice good home oral hygiene habits by brushing twice and flossing once daily. Contact your dentist immediately if you develop any concerns as you recover.

Preserve Your Oral Health

You can learn more about socket preservation with bone grafting by contacting Dr. Fred Alger, DDS. You can enhance your oral health with the help of an experienced periodontist and implant specialist.