01-2842570
Bone preservation/socket grafting
Socket Graft/ Ridge Preservation
When a tooth is extracted there will be a hole in the bone. Often the bone has been damaged by infection before the loss of the tooth and so will be thin or even have a hole present in it. If we allow the socket to heal naturally there will be bone loss in the area afterwards. The exact amount will vary depending on the situation but it will happen.
If we place a socket graft at the time of the extraction we can considerably reduce the bone loss that takes place. This can mean the final tooth looks better, feels better and lasts longer. Socket grafting is a simple procedure that takes place while you are numb after the extraction. We clean out the socket and fill it with a bone substitute. Over time this bone substitute is replaced with your own bone and so the jawbone is maintained.
After the appropriate healing time dental implants should be placed to preserve this bone in the long term. If you are not planning on getting implants done a socket graft may still be worthwhile. We can use some bone fillers which reduce resorption of the bone and so will keep the bone profile for use under a bridge.
Socket grafts are a very gentle way of preserving bone and should be carried out often when a tooth is due to be extracted. Ask your Dublin Dental implant dentist if you are a suitable candidate for a socket graft.
