While preserving natural teeth is always our priority, there are situations where a tooth cannot be saved due to advanced periodontal disease, fracture, infection, or structural damage. When extraction is necessary, how the tooth is removed — and what is done afterward — has a major impact on long-term oral health and future treatment options.
As periodontists, we are uniquely trained to manage these complex cases and perform extractions in a way that protects future implant sites and adjacent structures. At Mayflower Periodontics & Implant Center, extractions are performed with a focus on precision, comfort, and preservation of the surrounding bone and gum tissue.
Why Bone Preservation Matters After an Extraction
Following tooth removal, the jawbone naturally begins to resorb. Studies show that significant bone loss can occur within the first 3–6 months after extraction. This bone loss can lead to:
- Collapse of the ridge
- Changes in facial contours
- Difficulty placing dental implants
- Need for more extensive bone grafting later
For this reason, ridge preservation is often recommended at the time of extraction. Socket grafting or ridge preservation is a procedure performed immediately after tooth removal to maintain the shape, width, and height of the alveolar ridge.
How Ridge Preservation Works
- The extraction site is thoroughly debrided
- A bone graft or biologic material is placed into the socket
- In some cases, growth factors or collagen plugs are used
- The site is stabilized with sutures or a membrane when indicated
This process helps preserve bone volume and creates a more predictable foundation for future tooth replacement.
Benefits of Ridge Preservation
- Limits post-extraction bone loss
- Maintains natural ridge contours
- Improves esthetics in visible areas
- Reduces the need for future bone grafting
- Improves predictability of dental implant placement
Ridge preservation is particularly important in patients planning for dental implants or when esthetics are a concern.
An extraction is often just one step in a comprehensive treatment plan. During your consultation, we will discuss whether ridge preservation is recommended, timing for implant placement or other restorations, and options for temporary or permanent tooth replacement. Our goal is to ensure that today’s extraction supports tomorrow’s long-term success.
An extraction is often just one step in a comprehensive treatment plan. At Mayflower Periodontics & Implant Center During your consultation, we will discuss:
- Whether ridge preservation is recommended
- Timing for implant placement or other restorations
- Options for temporary or permanent tooth replacement
Our goal is to ensure that today’s extraction supports tomorrow’s long-term success.
