Socket Grafting (Ridge Preservation)

A socket is the area of the bone where the tooth is rooted. When advance periodontal disease or injury has caused extreme deterioration to bones and teeth, the tooth socket may need to be reconstructed.

What is Socket Grafting?

When a tooth has suffered extensive damage or has been lost, it may require socket grafting. Socket grafting is a procedure which rebuilds the bone to allow for tooth replacement by a dental implant or bridge restoration. The bone which surrounds the tooth socket deteriorates very quickly once a tooth is removed.

If a socket continues to be empty after tooth loss, the accelerated bone loss can impact adjacent teeth. Thus, it is incredibly important for appearance and health to rebuild the socket at the time of tooth loss.

What is Involved in Socket Grafting?

If the tooth has not already been removed (see Figure 1), the remaining tooth will be extracted (see Figure 2). All remaining root particles will be removed to leave a clean empty socket. Bone grafting material will then be placed into the socket, which will build it into a firm foundation for reconstruction (see Figure 3). There are several types of bone grafting materials available and our surgeons will choose the appropriate type to suit your needs.

There is an extended healing time for the grafted material to fully combine with your natural bone (see Figure 4). The healing process must be complete before continuing with the restoration. Once the new bone is solidified, implants or bridgework can be implemented to restore full function. Socket grafting greatly improves the chances that the missing tooth site will allow the patient to have a dental implant.