Tooth Extraction
Tooth Extraction & Socket Preservation
When a tooth is removed, the surrounding jawbone naturally begins to shrink — up to a significant portion of ridge width can be lost in the first year. Socket preservation places bone graft material into the socket at the time of extraction, protected with a membrane when needed, to limit that collapse and maintain the natural contour of the jaw.
Preserving the site early makes a future implant simpler and more predictable, supports natural facial contours, and often avoids larger grafting later. Whenever possible, preserving bone at the time of extraction is preferable to rebuilding it afterward.
Who it's for
- An extraction with a dental implant planned for later
- Preserving bone volume and gum contour after removal
- Sites in the esthetic zone where ridge shape matters
- Reducing the need for future grafting
What to expect
- 1
Gentle extraction
The tooth is removed with atraumatic techniques that preserve as much surrounding bone as possible.
- 2
Socket grafting
Bone graft material is placed into the socket and protected with a membrane when needed.
- 3
Healing
The site heals over a few months as the graft matures into bone, maintaining the ridge.
- 4
Implant placement
When ready, an implant can be placed into the preserved ridge with greater predictability.
Recovery & aftercare
Aftercare is similar to a routine extraction — mild soreness, possible minor swelling, and a few days of softer foods, with clear instructions to protect the graft.
Preserving the socket now improves implant predictability and typically makes the later implant phase more straightforward.
Common questions
- Do I need socket preservation for every extraction?
- Not always. It's recommended when maintaining bone volume matters — for example when an implant is planned or the site is in a visible area.
- Is it done at the same time as the extraction?
- Yes. Socket preservation is performed immediately after the tooth is removed.
Talk to a specialist about tooth extraction & socket preservation
Whether you're a patient considering treatment or a dentist referring a case, we'll evaluate, plan, and coordinate care from diagnosis through follow-up.
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Diagnosis and treatment should always be determined by a qualified dental professional based on your individual condition.