Do You Need a Socket Preservation Graft After Tooth Extraction?

If you are about to undergo a tooth extraction, the oral surgeon may suggest a procedure known as socket preservation grafting. When a tooth is lost or extracted, the hole (tooth socket) that once held the tooth roots to the bone remains. This article discusses the reasons that preserving the socket is important.

The need for socket preservation grafting

The following are reasons that a patient might need socket preservation grafting after a tooth extraction.

Prevent dry socket

A dry socket is a painful condition that often occurs as a side effect of tooth extraction and an unhealed tooth socket. The condition occurs when a well-formed blood clot loosens or dislodges in the socket, exposing the sensitive nerve underneath. Without treatment, the socket may get infected, causing damages to the jawbone, tissues, and nearby teeth. Socket preservation grafting is done to avert this situation and reduce the risk of pain or infection following a tooth extraction.

Preserve bone

Socket preservation grafting can also help maintain the structure and health of the jawbone. The procedure involves putting bone graft material into the empty socket. Covering the hole averts bone resorption despite the loss of stimulation from the natural tooth root. This can also stop other teeth from moving out of their positions and causing dental misalignment because the rate of bone deterioration slows down significantly.

Set the groundwork for future dental restorations

Socket preservation grafting can increase the chances of successful tooth replacement with options like bridges or dental implants. It can also be beneficial for those who opt for dentures. To get implants, there has to be a minimum amount of jawbone to keep them stable and functional. Without adequate bone, gum recession and bone loss will eventually lead to implant failure. Socket preservation grafting ensures that patients have an adequate healthy bone to support an implant restoration.

Dental bridges help maintain a good bone level after a tooth extraction. Otherwise, bone loss can create an abnormally large gap between the opposing tooth and the recessed gums. The bridge will have to fill that gap, which means it will be longer or taller. Although the bridge will still be natural-looking, the extra material will likely increase the cost of the prosthetic device. Therefore, socket preservation can improve the aesthetic of the dental bridge.

Dentures do not usually require socket preservation grafting. But the level of jawbone volume affects the fit and stability of the denture. The oral surgeon can place socket preservation grafts in specific locations along the jaw during tooth extraction before placing dentures. This allows the gums to heal correctly and ensures that the jaw is strong enough for denture retention.

In conclusion

Tooth extraction and socket preservation grafts are simple procedures performed by the oral surgeon. If you have additional questions about the treatment or want to get a tooth replacement option like dental implants, contact the dental office to book an appointment. The dentist will be happy to address your concerns and make the best recommendations.

Request an appointment here: https://spectrumsurgical.net or call Facial Spectrum at (816) 524-4334 for an appointment in our Lee's Summit office.

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