Extraction Site Prevention
When removing a tooth it is important to consider what will be done with the empty space after that tooth is removed. Wisdom teeth are in the back of the mouth, so that site will heal on its own with no complications. If it is necessary to remove another tooth, plans must be made. If a tooth is removed and nothing is done with the extraction site, the jaw bone will degenerate and change shape during healing and can cause your teeth to shift. This can create problems in your bite and affect your ability to speak and chew.
If you want to fill the space with a dental implant, a sturdy jaw bone is necessary to install the implant. If you opt for a dental bridge, the bridge must be molded and placed before the teeth shift.
Your dentist is always open to a conversation on what you would like to do with your extraction site before removing a tooth. They will be able to make a recommendation and layout a treatment plan. Make sure to schedule follow up appointments to properly care for your extraction site.
Pro Tip: Plan Before Extraction
The best time to discuss tooth replacement is BEFORE the extraction, not after. This allows us to preserve your bone and give you the most options for the future.
Why Extraction Site Care Matters
What Happens Without Treatment
Weeks 1-4
- Natural healing process begins
- Some bone resorption starts
- Socket gradually fills with soft tissue
Months 1-6
- Significant bone loss (up to 25% width)
- Neighboring teeth begin to shift
- Bite changes become noticeable
1+ Years
- Continued bone deterioration
- Difficulty speaking or chewing
- Harder/impossible to place implants
Tooth Replacement Options to Discuss
Dental Implant
- Permanent solution
- Prevents bone loss
- Functions like natural tooth
- No impact on adjacent teeth
Timeline: 3-6 months after extraction
Dental Bridge
- Fixed solution using adjacent teeth
- Faster than implant
- Requires shaping neighboring teeth
- Does not prevent bone loss
Must be placed before teeth shift
Partial Denture
- Most affordable option
- Can be temporary or permanent
- Removable option
- Does not prevent bone loss
Good temporary solution during healing
Extraction Site Preservation Options
Bone Grafting
Bone material placed in socket immediately after extraction to maintain bone volume and density.
- • Done during same appointment
- • 3-6 months healing time
- • Very high success rate
Socket Preservation
Prevents natural bone resorption and maintains ridge width and height.
- • Simplifies future implant placement
- • Reduces need for additional procedures
- • Minimally invasive
Immediate Implant
Implant placed same day as extraction when bone quality allows.
- • Eliminates waiting period
- • Not suitable for all cases
- • Requires adequate bone quality
Plan Your Extraction the Right Way
Don't leave your extraction site to chance. A proper treatment plan preserves your bone, protects your smile, and gives you more options for the future. Schedule a consultation to discuss your extraction and replacement strategy.