Socket Preservation
When a tooth is removed, the space it leaves behind, known as the socket, begins to heal and close up. However, without proper care, the bone around the socket can start to shrink or resorb, which can complicate future treatments.
At Rintel Oral Surgery, we specialize in socket preservation, a procedure designed to maintain bone structure after an extraction.
What is Socket Preservation?
Socket preservation is a procedure performed immediately following a tooth extraction to preserve the surrounding bone. After a tooth is removed, the bone can begin to shrink, potentially affecting the fit and success of future dental implants.
During socket preservation, we place a special material into the empty socket to help prevent bone loss and encourage new bone growth.
Materials commonly used for socket preservation include:
- Bone Grafts: They can be natural (from human or animal sources) or synthetic. Bone grafts provide the structure needed for new bone tissue to grow.
- Collagen: A natural substance used to support healing and protect graft material.
- Barrier Membranes: They cover the graft and promote healing by preventing tissue from growing into the socket.
How Long After a Tooth Extraction Should Socket Preservation Be Done?
Socket preservation is most effective when performed immediately after a tooth extraction, ideally during the same visit. This allows the graft material to integrate with the surrounding bone before significant resorption can occur.
The Socket Preservation Procedure
- Tooth Extraction: First, the tooth is removed. If necessary, we’ll clean the area to ensure no infection or debris remains.
- Socket Preparation: The socket is thoroughly cleaned and prepared, so the graft material integrates well with the existing bone.
- Graft Placement: A bone graft is placed into the socket to encourage bone growth and prevent resorption.
- Barrier Membrane Application: In some cases, a collagen membrane is placed over the graft to protect it and guide tissue healing.
- Closure: After the graft is secured, the area is sutured, allowing for proper healing and integration.
The entire procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you’ll remain comfortable throughout. The healing process usually takes 4-6 months, giving the graft time to bond with the bone and maintain the socket's shape for future restoration procedures.
Preserve Your Smile with Socket Preservation at Rintel Oral Surgery
If you're planning a tooth extraction or are concerned about bone loss, socket preservation is the key to maintaining structure. Visit Rintel Oral Surgery to learn how our socket preservation lifts can help you!
