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What Is A Socket Preservation Procedure?
A socket preservation procedure is a bone grafting treatment performed immediately after a tooth extraction to prevent bone loss and maintain the natural shape of the jaw. After a tooth is removed, the surrounding bone and soft tissues begin to shrink due to lack of stimulation. Without intervention, this can lead to jawbone deterioration, changes in facial structure, and challenges with future dental restorations like implants or dentures.
At South Mississippi Oral Surgery & Implant Center in Gulfport, MS, our skilled surgeons use socket preservation to protect and stabilize the extraction site. This involves placing bone graft material into the empty socket where the tooth once was. The graft encourages natural bone growth and helps maintain volume and density in the area, preserving your oral health and opening the door for successful implant placement later on.
Socket preservation is often recommended for patients who are considering dental implants or want to avoid the long-term effects of bone loss.
Preserving Your Jaw Bone after Extraction
Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary due to decay, infection, trauma, or orthodontic needs—but they can have unintended consequences on your jawbone. When a tooth is lost, the body naturally begins to resorb the bone that once supported it, particularly within the first few months. This bone shrinkage not only impacts your appearance, but it can also make placing dental implants more difficult or even impossible without additional grafting later on.
Socket preservation helps prevent this outcome by proactively placing bone material in the socket at the time of extraction. This simple step helps:
- Preserve the height and width of the alveolar ridge
- Minimize gum recession and bone loss
- Create a stable foundation for future implants
- Reduce the need for more extensive grafting procedures later
At our Gulfport office, we tailor the grafting material to fit your unique needs and use advanced techniques to ensure optimal healing and long-term results.
Why Choose South Mississippi Oral Surgery?
At South Mississippi Oral Surgery & Implant Center, your comfort, health, and long-term smile goals are our top priority. Our board-certified oral surgeons—Dr. Jared Akers, Dr. Bennett York, and Dr. Spencer Remley—are highly experienced in socket preservation and advanced bone grafting techniques.
Using 3D imaging and a patient-centered approach, we create treatment plans that protect your jaw structure and prepare you for the best possible outcome—whether you’re considering implants or simply want to maintain your natural facial contours.
Located in Gulfport, MS, our practice combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate care, making your experience smooth and stress-free. Whether you need a simple extraction or a full implant plan, our team is here to guide you through every step with precision and support.