Site Preservation

Bone Grafting

First, the tooth or teeth are extracted in a non-traumatic manner to preserve as much of your jawbone as possible, which reduces bleeding and discomfort.  Once the tooth/teeth are extracted, a site preservation procedure is performed to prevent the degeneration of your jawbone.  During the procedure the extraction site is debrided and bone graft material is placed to minimize further collapsing of your jawbone.  Initially, the bone graft material will support your jawbone, but over time it will be replaced with your own bone.  This bone will offer excellent support when you choose to have a dental implant, fixed bridge or other replacement alternative.

Although the bone created by site preservation (bone grafting) supports and preserves the jawbone, it will not do so indefinitely.  Placing dental implants after healing of the bone graft (typically 4-6 months) will provide the longest lasting support for preserving your jawbone and allow you to function at the same level as prior to the extraction. Otherwise the bone graft may “melt away” or resorb over time.  In some select cases, it may be possible to extract the tooth and place the dental implant simultaneously.