Socket preservation is a procedure that may be performed after an extraction to help reduce bone loss. Bone grafting material or bone growth enhancing elements are placed into the socket where the extracted tooth was removed. This is done to prevent the resorption of bone and to stimulate your body’s own natural capacity to regenerate bone.
Why is this important? Socket preservation is important because bone resorption can interfere with restorative treatments such as dental implants, crowns or bridges. These restorations require a solid support system, which socket preservation can help provide a dependable foundation.
And, if a socket is not properly preserved, the lack of a dependable foundation can greatly impact your oral health.
When is Socket Preservation Recommended?
With many extractions, socket preservation is not necessary or recommended. But when your dental team understands that it is necessary for your tooth, gum, and bone health, it is usually for one of these reasons.
- Socket Deformation
If your oral surgeon suspects that your gums might heal in a way that could lead to the deformation of the socket that previously held your tooth, socket preservation is usually recommended. During the healing process, that socket can become deformed, and should this occur, dental implants could become more difficult and bone issues impacting your overall oral health could also occur.
Afterall, whenever a tooth is removed, the bone underneath the socket may start to deteriorate. If deterioration isn’t prevented or addressed when the extraction takes place, then it could lead to another inconvenient and more expensive surgical procedure down the line, as well as negatively impacting your health and your smile.
- Bone Graft
When a bone graft is performed, a socket preservation often accompanies it. The preservation is done using a special synthetic material that is specifically designed for this procedure. The material is attached to the jawbone just below your socket’s location. Then, once the socket is healed, new bone is allowed to grow, which strengthens your jaw and prevents problems from occurring.
Socket Preservation with Osteoporosis
Socket preservation may also be recommended for patients with osteoporosis, even if an extraction is relatively simple. The loss of bone mineral density due to osteoporosis can affect the jawbone, which leads to a weakening in your jaw health and strength. Because socket preservation can help to stimulate bone growth and a healthy jaw, this procedure can prevent future trips to the oral surgeon, eliminating potential problems before they take place.
Along with helping maintain your jawbone health and facilitating healing, socket preservation can also help your remaining natural teeth to stay in their natural positions. The preservation can also allow you to have a successful dental implant procedure, including individual implants and implant supported bridges.
Ready to Learn More about Socket Preservation?
If you’re ready for more information about socket preservation, reach out to us at Oral and Facial Surgery Centers of Massachusetts, today. Our dental team is ready and waiting to offer dental bridge treatment.