When Does Our Dentist at Ace Dental of Texas Recommend Socket Preservation?

When you chew and bite with your healthy teeth, your body sends signals to keep reinforcing the jawbone so that your teeth can withstand all that pressure. After extraction, the bone around the empty socket naturally begins to shrink. Studies have reported substantial changes in ridge width and height during the first several months, although the amount varies by site and individual circumstances.

This change is completely natural. But it can cause problems if you eventually plan to replace that missing tooth. The teeth next to the gap may also start to shift, which can make the whole process more complex.

That’s why our dentist at Ace Dental of Texas may talk about socket preservation after tooth removal.

Socket preservation, aka ridge preservation, is done to sustain the alveolar bone around the empty socket. The process is not as complicated as it may sound from the name. We pack the empty socket with a bone graft.

This supports new bone growth. It also slows down your natural bone from deteriorating.

We often recommend it right after extraction, on the same day. This cuts down on extra visits and keeps your socket preserved for any future tooth replacement options you may consider.

We may also suggest it after a front tooth extraction. When the bone shrinks, the gums may follow. Socket preservation stops the bone and gums from caving in, keeping a natural appearance.

These days, many patients in Central Texas and surrounding areas prefer dental implants for missing teeth. It’s a fixed, very natural-looking solution. But here’s the thing: you need solid jawbone support for dental implants. Without enough jawbone, your implants may not function well.

Instead of dealing with these problems later on and getting additional procedures done, we make the process easier. Tooth extraction with same-day socket preservation keeps the jawbone strong for an implant later on.

Even if you choose another tooth replacement option, like a dental bridge or partial denture, this method can still be helpful. It keeps the foundation strong for what’s to come next.

Socket preservation after tooth extraction can be really helpful. It maintains the jawbone in that area, so that you have a solid foundation for future dental implants. Talk to our dental experts at Ace Dental of Texas and find out whether this approach would work for you. Schedule a visit today!