Socket Preservation
Enjoy All The Benefits Of Implants
Protect Your Jaw With Socket Preservation in Norfolk
When a tooth is removed, the surrounding bone begins shrinking because of the missing tooth root. We perform socket preservation in Norfolk to help maintain the size and shape of the jaw. Performed after your tooth extraction, this bone grafting procedure can:
- Help you maintain more of your jawbone while the extraction area heals
- Protect the jaw area so future implant placement remains easier
- Reduce the potential need for additional grafting later
- Maintain ridge dimensions for a more natural-looking restorative foundation
- Allow your dentist to plan for tooth replacement from the beginning
Call (888) 503-4723 for an appointment. We'll help you maintain the foundation needed for predictable restorative care.
What Happens During Socket Preservation
Socket preservation is commonly completed at the same appointment as the tooth extraction. Before treatment, your dentist examines the tooth, surrounding bone, and your future restorative goals. The bone augmentation typically works like this:
- Planning - Your dentist plans the socket preservation procedure prior to removing the tooth. We may use imaging to reveal root shape, bone levels, and other important aspects of your anatomy.
- Remove the Tooth Carefully - The tooth is extracted, as your dentist protects surrounding bone and tissue as much as possible. Sedation is available if you feel nervous.
- Prepare the Socket - Your dentist cleans and evaluates the site after the tooth is removed. This creates appropriate conditions before any grafting material is placed.
- Place the Bone Graft - Grafting material is placed into the socket when preservation is recommended. Protective material may also be used when appropriate.
- Allow the Site to Heal - The area requires time to develop new supporting tissue and bone. Your dentist monitors healing before determining when future dental implant treatment can begin.
Socket grafting is one of several bone-building procedures. If an area has already lost significant width or height, your dentist may recommend ridge augmentation or another bone grafting approach instead.
Call (888) 503-4723 for oral surgery and implant solutions to restore your smile. Ask if socket preservation in Norfolk is right for you.
Common Questions About Socket Preservation
What is socket preservation?
Socket preservation is a bone grafting procedure used after a tooth is removed. Your dentist places grafting material into the empty tooth socket. It helps maintain the width and height of the surrounding ridge during healing. It may be especially valuable when a dental implant is planned for the area later.
Do I need socket preservation after every extraction?
No, you do not need socket preservation after every extraction. Your dentist considers the location of the tooth, condition of the surrounding bone, reason for extraction, anatomy, and how you plan to replace the missing tooth. Grafting may be particularly helpful when future implant treatment is likely.
Why does bone shrink after an extraction?
Bone shrinks after an extraction because the tooth root is no longer present to transfer chewing forces into the surrounding jaw. Once the tooth is gone, the body naturally resorbs the unused bone. The ridge may gradually become narrower or shorter as healing continues. The amount of change varies from one patient and site to another.
Does socket preservation hurt?
No, socket preservation doesn't hurt. It is performed with local anesthesia, so the treatment area is numbed during the extraction and graft placement. Your dentist will provide instructions for managing discomfort and protecting the grafted area. If dental anxiety is a concern, sedation may also be available.
How long does a socket preservation graft take to heal?
The time it takes for a socket preservation graft to heal can vary. The gum tissue over an extraction site begins healing relatively quickly, but the bone underneath takes longer to mature. Your exact timeline depends on the location, the size of the graft, health status, healing response, and planned restoration.
