Socket Preservation

Socket preservation (ridge preservation) is the placement of bone graft material into a tooth socket immediately after extraction, before the gum is sutured over it. The graft prevents the socket walls from collapsing inward and reduces the bone resorption that would otherwise occur over the following months.

Why it is recommended

Without socket preservation, studies show that 50% or more of ridge width and up to 40% of ridge height can be lost within 6 months of extraction. This bone loss is largely irreversible without more complex augmentation procedures. Socket preservation dramatically reduces this loss, making subsequent implant placement simpler, more predictable, and potentially avoiding the need for separate ridge augmentation.

The procedure

At the time of extraction, the socket is cleaned and filled with graft material (usually xenograft or allograft). A collagen membrane is placed over the socket entrance and the gum is sutured closed or partially closed. A temporary denture or flipper can usually be provided for aesthetics during the 3–4 month healing period.

When to consider it

Socket preservation should be considered whenever a tooth is extracted and an implant is planned — even if the implant is not going to be placed immediately. Discussing implant plans at the time of extraction (even tentatively) allows the appropriate decision to be made.