When a tooth is removed, the jawbone which was associated with supporting the tooth begins to shrink and detiorate. The overlying gum tissue also things with the loss of bone. This can leave a condition where poor bone quality and quantity may create difficulty in stabilizing an implant.
There are a number of options which can prevent this bone loss and it is imperative that they are discussed and considered BEFORE any tooth is extracted. Some of these procedures are best performed when the tooth is removed.
When you need to have teeth extracted, preserving the tooth socket will allow numerous tooth replacement options in the future. When socket preservation is planned, most patients are surprised that the only usual pain medication given post-operatively is Advil Ibuprofen. There is no pain expected during the actual procedure. When you are at home recovering, most patients state that they have discomfort which is 2 or 3 out of 10. Rarely, does a single socket preservation procedure cause more discomfort.