Dental Extractions:
- Assessment: The dentist examines the tooth and surrounding tissues to determine if extraction is necessary. X-rays may be taken to assess the tooth’s roots and surrounding bone.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the tooth to be extracted. In some cases, sedation may also be provided to help patients relax.
- Extraction: Using specialized instruments, the dentist loosens the tooth from its socket in the jawbone. The tooth may be removed in one piece or divided into smaller sections for easier extraction.
- Post-extraction care: After the tooth is removed, the dentist may place gauze over the extraction site to control bleeding and instruct the patient on how to care for the area during the healing process.
Socket Preservation:
- Purpose: Socket preservation, also known as ridge preservation, is a procedure performed immediately after tooth extraction to maintain the shape and volume of the alveolar ridge (the bone that supports the teeth).
- Procedure: After the tooth is extracted, the dentist fills the socket with a bone graft material to prevent bone loss and promote new bone growth. This can help preserve the integrity of the surrounding bone and provide a stable foundation for future dental implants.
- Benefits: Socket preservation reduces the risk of bone resorption (loss) following tooth extraction, which can lead to complications such as gum recession and changes in facial appearance. It also increases the likelihood of successful implant placement in the future.
- Timing: Socket preservation is most effective when performed immediately after tooth extraction, as it helps to minimize the amount of bone loss that occurs during the healing process.
In summary, dental extractions involve the careful removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone, typically under local anesthesia. Following extraction, socket preservation may be recommended to maintain the bone structure and facilitate future implant placement. This involves filling the socket with a bone graft material to prevent bone loss and promote new bone growth. Socket preservation is an important step in preserving oral health and restoring function and aesthetics after tooth loss.