Tooth Socket GraftWhat Is a Tooth Socket Graft?When a tooth is extracted, the hole that is left behind is called a socket. This socket is filled with bone graft to protect it. There are several different types of graft materials used, including your own bone, another’s bone, animal bone, or synthetic bone. Depending on the material selected and factors like where the graft is and how much there is, your healing time can range from three to six months. While this procedure is straightforward and has numerous health benefits, unfortunately very few dental offices offer it. We are proud to bring you the full spectrum of oral health options so that your smile never has to suffer. Why Do I Need a Tooth Socket Graft?Getting a tooth socket graft is a great idea for a couple of reasons, and something we often recommend be done the same day as the extraction. After an extraction, the socket will be overly sensitive. A blood clot forms over the healing area, but if it is displaced then the nerve below is exposed, a condition known as dry socket. This can be incredibly painful, far more so than the extraction itself. In the long-term, the empty space will also cause alignment issues as your other teeth shift around it. Protecting the socket is not the only reason, though. For those considering dental implants to replace their extracted teeth, getting a socket graft is a great way to ensure the long-term health of your jaw. When a tooth is removed, the resulting hole can lead to a reduction in your jawbone because it’s no longer necessary to support the tooth that used to be there. Because implants are anchored in and fuse with the jawbone, having too little bone can mean that you are not a good candidate for dental implants. Of course, while a socket graft will prevent the immediate deterioration of the bone, it will still inevitably set in, sometimes as soon as nine months after the grafting. The only way to ensure the permanent preservation of your jawbone is with a dental implant. Rejuvenate Your Smile Today!With so many incredible advancements in modern dentistry, there is no reason anyone has to go through life being ashamed of their smile. At Alexandra Garcia, DDS, MS, we’re committed to helping every one of our patients smile with all of their pearly whites. Find out how our fantastic team of dentists can help you by calling (346) 250-2930 today! |
|
Office hoursMon-Thur 8:00am-5:00pm Fri 8:00am-1:00pm |