Maintaining jaw bone health post-tooth extraction is crucial.
There are times when teeth need to be removed due to pain, infection, bone loss, or a fractured tooth. Disease and infection can damage the bone socket that holds the tooth in place, leading to jaw deformities after extraction. Additionally, extraction of teeth can cause the surrounding bone and gums to shrink and recede rapidly, resulting in cosmetic defects and a collapse of the lips and cheeks.
These jaw defects can pose challenges for restorative dentistry procedures such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures. However, socket preservation can help prevent and repair jaw deformities caused by tooth removal. This procedure can enhance the appearance of your smile and increase the success rate of dental implants.
There are various techniques available to help preserve bone and prevent bone loss after a tooth extraction. One common method involves filling the socket with bone or a bone substitute after the tooth is removed. This is then covered with gum, an artificial membrane, or tissue to stimulate your body's natural healing process. By using this method, the socket can heal properly, preventing shrinkage and collapse of the surrounding gum and facial tissues. Additionally, the newly formed bone in the socket can provide a stable foundation for a future dental implant. If your dentist recommends tooth removal, it is important to inquire about socket preservation, especially if you are considering replacing a front tooth.
