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. If tooth replacement with a dental implant is indicated, the technique for removal of the tooth is one of the most important factors in determining how well the bone heals after the extraction. This technique, called Socket Preservation, ensures that adequate bone regeneration occurs in the future implant site and helps provide a better esthetic outcome for the final implant crown.

We use a very delicate technique to gently remove the tooth, utilizing several micro-surgical instruments or a new surgical technology called Piezosurgery. The end result is to minimize any trauma to the surrounding bone and gum tissue.

Occasionally a small bone graft may be placed into the socket if indicated to preserve the bone quality and quantity and ensure successful future implant placement. Proper management of the extraction site prevents the need for expensive grafting and reconstructive procedures later. 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 replacing any front teeth.