Socket Preservation Grafting for Dental Implants
Socket preservation graft is a procedure performed by an oral surgeon in an effort to restore missing bone. When a tooth is extracted, the result is usually an empty socket. An empty socket does nothing other than put the entire oral cavity at risk. To remedy this, an oral surgeon will perform a grafting procedure in which the socket is filled with a material that will eventually solidify into bone. Continue reading to find out more about the procedure and what is involved.
Understanding socket preservation grafting
Below is a quick overview of how an oral surgeon uses a socket preservation graft for dental implants. This information may be useful to individuals exploring their replacement options.
What is involved?
During a socket preservation grafting procedure, the oral surgeon will first extract a tooth that is in bad shape. Immediately after extraction, the empty socket will be filled with the material. Since most socket preservation grafting procedures take place immediately after extraction, the area in the mouth is usually still prepped from the initial procedure. This means that any sedatives or numbing agents will not usually have to be reapplied. The grafting does not usually take more than an hour, and it goes a long way in the tooth replacement process.
Of course, socket preservation grafting does not have to be performed after an extraction, but oral surgeons highly recommend it. It is recommended because it ensures that there will be enough viable bone later on when a dental implant is placed for tooth replacement.
When it is necessary
Socket preservation grafting is necessary when individuals undergo tooth extraction and then want to replace the missing tooth. The procedure is not absolutely necessary, but it is highly advised because it keeps the socket in good shape until a dental implant can be placed. Additionally, as stated earlier, in order for dental implants to be successful, enough viable bone has to be present.
What else to know
Aside from dental implants, if any type of tooth replacement is desired, patients should absolutely undergo socket preservation grafting. Even though bridges and dentures do not become part of the bone as implants do, they still need to exist in a healthy environment. When the oral cavity has empty sockets with deteriorating bone, the environment is not healthy. This puts the gums and jaw both at risk of decaying or becoming infected.
Of course, if there are multiple teeth being extracted, it is advised to talk with the oral surgeon about the best way to undergo socket preservation grafting.
Talk to an oral surgeon
An oral surgeon is the best resource to utilize when needing a socket preservation graft. An evaluation can be performed to determine whether or not the procedure would be beneficial. From there, any questions or concerns about dental implant placement can also be addressed. To learn more about socket preservation grafting or the tooth replacement process, reach out today.
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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