Socket Preservation

What is a Socket Preservation?

When a tooth is extracted, there is a hole left in the bone where the roots of the tooth were present. If nothing is done it takes approximately 6 to 12 months for bone to fill-in to the empty socket. Sometimes food gets caught in the socket and may cause infection. In some instances the gum grows into the bone preventing a solid bone fill.

To avoid this, extraction sockets can be preserved by placing a donor graft material. A membrane is then placed over the bone graft and is held in place with an absorbable biocompatible suture.

What are different kinds of graft materials?

There are different kinds of graft materials that can be used in a socket preservation procedure.

Xenograft is a material that is obtained from a different species that can be used as a socket preservation material. Most common Xenograft material is Bovine graft material.

Allograft is a material that is obtained from a donor. This material Goes through intensive sterilization purification and testing process before it is disbursed to dentists providers to be used for their patients.

Autograft Is a kind of graft material that is obtained from the patient itself from a different site.

Who needs a graft placement after extractions?

Almost everybody who has a tooth removed is a candidate for graft material. There is a misconception that if the person is not receiving a dental implant they do not require a bone graft. The purpose of the bone graft is not only to protect the extraction socket but to also act as a matrix so that when the platelets and bone forming cells start to travel to this area. This already existing matrix or a scaffolding helps the platelets and the bone forming cells to stick and form a solid foundation for healing. The presence of the bone graft prevents food being caught in the extraction socket enhance can prevent secondary infection and dry socket formation.

Is there pain associated while receiving a socket preservation procedure or bone graft placement?

There is little pain associated with the socket preservation procedure. In fact, the placement of socket preservation material reduces the amount of pain experienced by the patient after the dental extraction is completed. This procedure may take additional 10 minutes to be completed.

The socket preservation material placed usually gets absorbed by the body and any extra will work its way out. The bone graft material once placed does not have to be removed as it integrates with your natural bone.

What are my options if I do not want a bone graft but still want a socket preservation?

PRP is a procedure which can be used in conjunction with socket preservation material procedure. PRP start stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. The patient’s blood is drawn and it is placed in a spinner. This separates the platelets and plasma. The platelets are removed and placed in the socket which help with faster healing.

Which socket preservation material is right for me?

The ideal material for you is determined by your dentist or your oral surgeon. Based on the treatment that is being received by you and the amount of infection present during the time of extraction, determines the type of bone graft material that is being used for you.

At Carrollton Smiles, Dr. Sirisha Bhandaru offers exceptional care when you are in pain. If you are experiencing dental pain or you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bhandaru, please call us at (972) 245-3455 or send us as message.