When a tooth is removed, the jawbone can begin to shrink, complicating future dental restorations. Ridge Preservation is a procedure performed at the time of extraction to prevent this bone loss. By placing a Bone Graft into the empty socket, the treatment ensures there is a sufficient, stable foundation for a future Dental Implant.
When a tooth is removed, the bone that once held it in place, known as the alveolar ridge, begins to resorb or shrink. This natural process can lead to significant loss of jawbone volume, which can create a “caved-in” appearance and complicate future dental restorations.
Ridge Preservation is a vital procedure performed immediately after a Tooth Extraction to prevent this bone loss. By placing a Bone Graft—either from the patient’s own body, a donor, or a synthetic source—into the empty socket, the surgeon encourages new bone growth and maintains the jawbone’s structure.
Your surgeon may recommend this procedure if you:
Before surgery
Prior to your procedure, a thorough examination and X-Rays will be performed to assess the health of the bone and determine the best approach. Your surgeon will discuss the type of Bone Graft material to be used and review your medical history.
You’ll receive detailed pre-operative instructions to help ensure a smooth, successful surgery. These may include:
During surgery
The Ridge Preservation procedure is typically performed under Local Anesthesia, though other sedation options are available for your comfort. After the tooth is extracted, the surgeon carefully cleans the socket. Here’s what happens:
After surgery
Following the procedure, you will receive post-operative instructions to help manage swelling and discomfort.
During this time:
Once healing is complete, the site will be ready for implant placement or other restorative treatment.
The initial healing of the soft tissue usually takes about 2–4 weeks. However, the Bone Graft itself takes much longer to fully integrate and harden. The complete maturation of the bone can take anywhere from 4 to 12 months, depending on the individual and the type of graft material used. Your surgeon will monitor your progress with X-Rays to determine when the bone is strong enough for a Dental Implant.
Not always. A Bone Graft for Ridge Preservation is highly recommended when a Dental Implant is planned for the future. It is also beneficial for maintaining facial aesthetics, especially in the front of the mouth. If you are not planning to get an implant or if a removable appliance will be used, a Bone Graft may not be necessary. Your oral surgeon will evaluate your specific situation and provide the best recommendation.
Ridge Preservation is a very common and safe procedure, but like all surgeries, it carries some minor risks. These can include infection at the surgical site, a small piece of the graft coming out of the socket (which does not always compromise the final outcome), or a reaction to the graft material. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you and take every precaution to minimize them.
The procedure itself is not painful due to the use of Local Anesthesia and/or Sedation. Post-operative discomfort is typically minimal and can be managed effectively with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication. Patients usually report a similar level of discomfort as a simple Tooth Extraction.
While the success rate is very high, there is a small chance that the body may not fully accept the graft. Factors such as smoking, poor oral hygiene, or certain medical conditions can increase this risk. The surgeon takes many steps to ensure the best possible outcome, and if a graft fails, another attempt can often be made.
The cost can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and the type of Bone Graft material used. Some dental insurance plans may offer partial coverage for Bone Grafts, especially when they are deemed medically necessary for a future restoration like an implant. Contact our office or your insurance company understand your specific benefits.
Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile. Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through a comfortable and effective treatment journey.
