Once a tooth is pulled out, the procedure will leave behind a small hole where the tooth once was. This hole, or socket, will be very sensitive. Our dentists may recommend socket preservation immediately after the extraction to protect it.
A dry socket can form if the blood clot that’s protecting the healing area is knocked loose, exposing the nerves underneath. Preserving the socket is also crucial in protecting the alveolar ridge. This is the strip of bone that surrounds the roots of your teeth. If this bone is compromised, it could complicate other dental procedures, such as implants, down the line.
Socket preservation procedure involves placing a bone graft directly into the hole where the tooth once was. This graft is usually made of synthetic materials or bone from other animals. Once the graft is placed in the socket, our dentists will cover it with a collagen membrane and stitch the area to keep it closed.
Our patients can be at ease knowing Pickfair Family Dental uses the utmost care during all extraction procedures. Afterwards, we may prescribe an antibiotic to prevent infection. We also ask patients to avoid certain foods and rigorous activity for the first few days after extraction is complete.