What is a socket graft and what does the treatment involve?
When deciding on dental implants our Vancouver and Coquitlam patients typically have many questions about what to expect from the procedure. In addition, patients interested in dentures also may need to have their teeth extracted, before having implant-supported dentures.
In both cases, it is important to know about what's called a socket graft or a socket preservation bone graft. This might sound intimidating, but it's a simple and effective procedure that helps patients achieve the best possible results from their implants.
Why do I need a socket graft?
When you have a tooth extracted, it leaves an empty space in your jaw bone we call it a socket. This tooth socket is surrounded by a thin strip of bone called the alveolar ridge that naturally protects the roots of your teeth and holds your teeth in their place. Once a tooth is gone, the blood supply to that thin strip of bone, the Alveolar bone, is damaged which limits the blood supply to the area. This limited blood supply makes it impossible for the body to generate bone and completely fill that socket with a healthy natural bone and keep the shape and height of alveolar bone as it was before.
The process of collapse of the tissue is a natural reaction that we call bone atrophy due to a lack of function and blood supply. From a clinical point of view, we can see this as a gradual bone loss or bone shrinkage.
However, this natural process is not favorable, when you're planning to have dental implants or even a standard full denture. In fact, you want your body to preserve that socket with a healthy bone so that your implants are more secure and your jaw bone is as healthy as possible to support the implant or the dentures.
What can I expect during a socket graft?
For a socket graft, the surgeon uses bone graft material either synthetic or from a tissue bank that resembles kosher salt granules to fill the empty tooth socket immediately after tooth extraction. The site is then covered by a collagen membrane and stitched to help the new bone formation and healing process.
In simple words, a Socket graft keeps your jawbone from changing in width and height, maximizing your chances of receiving successful dental implants in the near future and keeping your jawbone intact and healthy.
Note: It is highly recommended to have the implant placed as soon as 4 to 6 months after the socket grafting and before the grafted area starts resorbing under the functional forces again.
Questions about socket grafts?
We understand that our patients want to feel knowledgeable and secure and also feel comfortable before a major dental procedure. This is why we've provided a basic overview of the benefits and steps involved in a socket preservation graft.
However, if you have additional questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to Ace Dental via phone, email, or the quick contact form on our contact page. One of our team members will be happy to arrange an appointment to see our dentist and answer any questions you might have.