If your dentist has said a tooth needs to come out, you may also hear the term “socket preservation”. It is a simple step, done at the same visit as the extraction, that protects your jawbone and keeps your options open for replacing the tooth later.
What happens to your jawbone after a tooth is removed?
Your jawbone needs the pressure of a tooth root to stay healthy. Once a tooth is removed, the bone that held it starts to shrink, both in height and width. Most of this loss happens in the first few months after the extraction.
This matters because:
- a dental implant needs enough bone to be placed securely
- a shrunken ridge can leave a visible dip in the gum, especially at the front of the mouth
- neighbouring teeth can drift into the gap over time
- rebuilding lost bone later usually means a larger, more involved graft
What is socket preservation?
Socket preservation, also called ridge preservation, is a minor procedure where your dentist fills the empty tooth socket with bone graft material straight after the extraction. The graft acts as a scaffold. Over the following months, your body grows new bone into it, helping the ridge keep its natural shape.
The graft material can come from several sources, including processed donor bone, processed bovine mineral or synthetic material. All are sterilised and your dentist will explain which suits you. You can read more on our dental bone grafting page.
What happens during the procedure?
- Gentle extraction. The tooth is removed carefully under local anaesthetic to protect the surrounding bone.
- Cleaning the socket. Any infection or debris is removed.
- Placing the graft. Bone graft material is packed into the socket.
- Covering and closing. A protective membrane or collagen dressing is placed over the graft, and the gum is closed with stitches.
The extra step usually adds only a short time to your appointment.
Who should consider socket preservation?
Your dentist may recommend it if you:
- plan to replace the tooth with an implant, but not straight away
- are having a front tooth removed and want the best cosmetic result
- have thin bone, or bone already damaged by infection or gum disease
- are having a back molar removed, where bone loss can be significant
It may not be needed if an implant can be placed on the same day as the extraction, or if you do not plan to replace the tooth. Our guide to implants vs bridges can help you weigh your options.
Recovery after socket preservation
Recovery is similar to a normal extraction. Expect some swelling and tenderness for a few days.
- Bite on gauze to control bleeding.
- Eat soft, cool foods for the first day or two.
- Avoid smoking, straws and vigorous rinsing, which can disturb the graft.
- Don’t worry if a few small granules come out; this is common.
Most patients are ready for an implant after a few months of healing, once a follow-up scan confirms the bone has formed. See our tooth extraction aftercare guide for more tips.
How much does socket preservation cost in Dubai?
The cost depends on the graft material, the size of the socket and whether a membrane is needed. It is usually simpler than rebuilding bone with a larger graft later.
Book a consultation in Motor City
Our oral surgeon, Dr. Jogi Jose Chungath, can tell you whether socket preservation is right for you. Book a consultation at Acer Dental Clinic, Motor City, or call/WhatsApp +971 582 344 055.
