When you have a tooth removed, you will have an empty socket left over from where the tooth resided. As this area is essentially an open wound in your gum tissue, it’s important to keep it healthy and protected for potential tooth replacements. Not having the socket preserved properly can also result in other problems in the surrounding areas.
No matter the reason for the extraction, the requirement for socket preservation is all the same. In order to aid the process, your surgeon may perform a socket preservation procedure. This can look different depending on the person, as well as what the intended future usage of the area is. If you or your doctor feel like you may need a socket preservation procedure, reach out to an oral surgeon. They have been trained specifically to cater to all oral health needs and can help detail the best surgical course of action for your specific case.
What to Expect From a Socket Preservation Procedure
Having a full idea of what exactly to expect from your socket preservation procedure can make the experience a lot more comfortable. Some things you should know include:
Why You Need One
Most preservation procedures are done in tandem with an extraction. When your tooth is removed, you run the risk of your teeth shifting, your bone weakening, and your sinuses shifting downward due to the lack of structural support. It’s also possible your extraction was done due to gum disease or another oral health complication, which only solidifies the need to ensure your gum and socket are properly preserved.
Having the procedure allows for future implants to be easily placed into the sturdy foundation. It also helps to prevent infection and the shifting of the other parts of your mouth and face. Without the procedure, you could possibly be looking at multiple other surgeries to correct the damage incurred.
What the Surgical Procedure Entails
A socket preservation procedure is fairly quick and easy. Also referred to as a bone graft, it can easily be done after the extraction to make for less time spent under anesthesia. A bone graft is conducted by taking a piece of bone and placing it into the socket to help preserve the integrity of the structure.
Sutures will be placed to help everything remain in place and heal properly. You may experience pain after the surgery, as well as swelling. Your surgeon will prepare you for any possible side effects before and after the procedure has occurred.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Maintenance
Post-surgery will likely involve the designing and fitting of new dental implants. This is done for aesthetic purposes as well as to preserve your natural bite. Your oral surgeon will help map out a timeline that works for you, as you will need to allow your socket to heal before receiving an implant.
While healing from the surgery, it is important to be gentle with the sensitive gum tissue and avoid getting any food debris in the surrounding area. You may be given antibiotics or pain medication to help with the chance of infection or aching.
Are You a Good Candidate for Socket Preservation Surgery? Call and Find Out Today
Union City Oral Surgery Group is composed of a team of expert oral and maxillofacial surgeons from around the United States. Our New Jersey facility is proud to offer the most comprehensive and up-to-date technology, surgery techniques, and treatments available. Our clients are treated under a people-first mentality, meaning we are there all the way from the initial consultation to the final recovery.
To see how we can best help you today, feel free to fill out our contact form or give our office a call at (201) 601-9262.
