Socket Preservation / Ridge Augmentation

After tooth extraction, healing occurs through a combination of shrinkage of the remaining socket bone and bone growth from the base of the extraction site. This often results in bone thinning where a tooth was previously located and a depression in the remaining ridge of bone.

Bone shrinkage can be prevented if the extraction site is filled with bone and bone-type materials and the area is covered with a membrane barrier immediately following the procedure. The membrane barrier prevents gum tissue from growing in the extraction area, creating a space for bone to grow. These materials help to encourage your own bone to grow at the site. Ridge preservation procedures help to prevent ridge abnormalities and preserve your oral health. Bone grafting at the time of tooth loss can preserve the ridge shape and minimize gum and bone collapse. Grafting also helps to minimize shrinkage and make sure you are happy with the way your tooth replacement looks.

Bone grafting following tooth loss can preserve the socket/ridge and minimize gum and bone collapse. There is less shrinkage and a more aesthetic tooth replacement for either an implant crown or fixed bridge around the replacement teeth.