Loss of the alveolar bone is associated with infected teeth and with the removal of teeth and the healing process that follows dental extractions. This natural reparative process can result after healing with a bone ridge that has insufficient bone to permit placement of an implant. The remedy for this problem requires bone grafting or possibly another less desirable treatment approach.

Socket preservation is an intervention completed at the time of dental extractions that minimizes this process. Socket preservation will frequently eliminate the need for a bone graft or if a bone graft is still necessary, it is frequently a less extensive and less complicated procedure.

Socket preservation involves filling the socket (defect) created by a dental extraction with a bone substitute (Bio-Oss). This promotes more extensive bone healing and bone fill in the socket. The filled socket is then sealed with a collagen cap or plug and occasionally with a tissue glue. For more extensive defects where the outer layer of cortical bone is lost, a resorbable membrane (Bio-Gide) may be inserted into the socket to shield the bone from the more rapidly growing soft tissues allowing this cortical bone wall time to reform.

The need for socket preservation is assessed by your dentist and Dr. Rabe and will be discussed with you if appropriate for your situation.

Return to top

Visit Victory Junction Gang Camp The Victory Junction Gang Camp enriches the lives of children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses by providing life-changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun, and empowering, in a safe and medically sound environment.