When to Consider Socket Preservation Grafting

Socket Preservation Grafting Lee's Summit, MO

Socket preservation grafting is a common way for oral surgeons to fill the empty tooth socket after tooth extraction or tooth loss. It preserves the integrity of the underlying bone that supports teeth, which can offer benefits such as preventing teeth shifting and reducing the risk of bone loss in the jaw, as well as gum recession.

When socket preservation grafting is recommended

Your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend socket preservation grafting after a tooth extraction, especially if a replacement tooth (implant, bridge, or denture) is necessary. This review takes a closer look at the purpose of socket preservation grafting and when it might be necessary for oral health, cosmetic, and functional reasons.

After a tooth extraction

There is a void that exists in the jawbone after tooth extraction. Without preserving the socket after tooth extraction, surrounding teeth can begin to shift in an effort to fill the extra space. This causes issues such as larger gaps between teeth or developing gaps that were not previously there. Bone atrophy in the jaw and gum recession may also occur in the affected area. A socket preservation graft prevents these concerns from developing by maintaining the structural integrity of the socket after tooth extraction.

Before dental implants

One of the main reasons dentists and oral surgeons recommend socket preservation grafting is to prepare the mouth for a dental implant. Implants serve the same role as a tooth root, which is to support the replacement tooth. Since the implant is placed into the jawbone, there must be enough existing bone to allow for a secure hold of the implant. If not, then the dental implant may not be successful. Socket preservation grafting ensures there is healthy bone tissue that allows for successful dental implant placement.

How it helps with bridges and dentures

Socket preservation grafting is also important if the patient intends to replace the missing tooth with a dental bridge or traditional denture. This is because the bone must keep the ideal height after tooth extraction to ensure a natural look, feel, and function. Also, without socket preservation grafting, surrounding teeth may shift. This makes bridges and dentures more challenging (and costly) as more space needs to be filled by the replacement teeth.

The benefits of socket preservation grafting

Everyone should consider how socket preservation grafting can help them before treatment. As discussed, the key benefits that socket preservation can achieve include:

  • Prevents bone loss
  • Gum recession prevention
  • Prevents teeth from shifting
  • Prepares for dental implants
  • Helps with bridge and dentures

The best way to determine whether socket preservation grafting is right for you is to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon and discuss the benefits as it relates to you specifically.

Talk to our dental practice about socket preservation grafting

If you are considering socket preservation grafting, then contact our dental team today to discuss the treatment option. Although socket preservation grafting may sound intimidating at first, we strive to make the treatment as convenient and comfortable as possible for our patients.

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

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Reasons An Oral Surgeon Would Perform A Gum Graft

A gum graft from an oral surgeon can improve the appearance and health of your smile. Gum recession is a common oral health problem where the gums pull back from the teeth, making them look elongated. This is not just a cosmetic issue. Gum recession can make the tooth roots and underlying structures that support…

What Is Corrective Jaw (Orthognathic) Surgery?

Corrective jaw surgery has helped many people function in a more effortless manner, and it is beneficial to those who suffer from a misaligned jaw.By understanding exactly what corrective jaw surgery is, you can determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure.Corrective jaw surgery is able to treat a wide variety of issues.…

Recovering From Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that is done to rebuild bone loss or repair bone damage in the oral cavity. When a tooth is lost or removed from its socket, the alveolar bone supporting it starts to deteriorate, resulting in a gradual collapse of facial features. If this happens, a patient who opts for…

Socket Preservation Graft From An Oral Surgeon

If you intend to have a removed tooth replaced in the future and one of your treatment choices is a dental implant, you may need to undergo a socket preservation graft from an oral surgeon. The bone graft will protect the tooth socket, preventing it from getting resorbed.A socket preservation graft is a dental operation…

Recent Posts

Reasons An Oral Surgeon Would Perform A Gum Graft

Reasons An Oral Surgeon Would Perform A Gum Graft

A gum graft from an oral surgeon can improve the appearance and health of your smile. Gum recession is a common oral health problem where the gums pull back from the teeth, making them look elongated. This is not just a cosmetic issue. Gum recession can make the tooth roots and underlying structures that support…

What Is Corrective Jaw (Orthognathic) Surgery?

What Is Corrective Jaw (Orthognathic) Surgery?

Corrective jaw surgery has helped many people function in a more effortless manner, and it is beneficial to those who suffer from a misaligned jaw.By understanding exactly what corrective jaw surgery is, you can determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure.Corrective jaw surgery is able to treat a wide variety of issues.…