Socket Preservation, Bone Grafting
Preserving Your Jaw Bone after Extraction
Removal of teeth is sometimes necessary because of pain, infection, bone loss, or due to a fracture in the tooth. The bone that holds the tooth in place (the socket) is often damaged by disease and/or infection, resulting in a deformity of the jaw after the tooth is extracted. In addition, when teeth are extracted the surrounding bone and gums can shrink and recede very quickly, resulting in unsightly defects and a collapse of the lips and cheeks.
These jaw defects can create major problems in performing restorative dentistry whether your treatment involves dental implants, bridges, or dentures. Jaw deformities from tooth removal can be prevented and repaired by a procedure called socket preservation. Socket preservation can greatly improve your smile’s appearance and increase your chances for successful dental implants.
Several techniques can be used to preserve the bone and minimize bone loss after an extraction. In one common method, the tooth is removed and the socket is filled with bone or bone substitute. It is then covered with gum, artificial membrane, or tissue, which encourages your body’s natural ability to repair the socket. With this method, the socket heals, eliminating shrinkage and collapse of the surrounding gum and facial tissues. The newly formed bone in the socket also provides a foundation for an implant to replace the tooth. If your dentist has recommended tooth removal, be sure to ask if socket preservation is necessary. This is particularly important if you are planning on replacing the front teeth.
Tooth Extraction and Bone Grafting Procedure
1- Dr. Sehgal is shown here drawing a patient’s blood in preparation for tooth extraction and bone grafting.
2- A vial of the patient’s blood is obtained.
3- It is put into a special machine called a centrifuge that will separate the blood in under 15 minutes.
4- The blood is now separated and Dr. Kapoor or Dr. Sehgal can retrieve the fibrin.
5- Platelet rich fibrin.
6- The platelet rich fibrin is flattened prior to usage.
7- The before picture of the patient’s broken tooth that required to be extracted.
8- The tooth has been removed and the bone grafting material has been inserted.
9- Dr. Kapoor or Dr. Sehgal then stitch up the area and you will be schedule in 2 weeks for a follow up visit.
