socket preservation bone graft (surgery)

Socket preservation is a surgical procedure that is used to preserve the bone structure of a tooth after it has been extracted. The goal of the procedure is to preserve the shape and size of the socket, or hole, left behind by the extracted tooth so that it can be used as a foundation for a dental implant or a bridge.
During the procedure, a small amount of bone graft material is placed into the socket where the tooth was extracted. The graft material is typically made of synthetic material or donated human or animal bone, and it helps to stimulate the growth of new bone cells. The graft material is then covered with a collagen membrane or other protective barrier, which helps to keep it in place and promotes healing.
Socket preservation is typically performed immediately after a tooth has been extracted, although it may also be done at a later time if necessary. It is usually done in cases where the extracted tooth was supporting a dental implant or bridge, or where the socket is at risk of collapsing due to the loss of tooth structure.
The technique used for socket preservation will depend on the specific needs of the patient and the condition of the socket. The procedure can be done using local anesthesia, and it typically takes only a few minutes to complete.
After the procedure, the patient will need to follow a specific set of instructions for care, including taking medications as prescribed and avoiding certain activities that could disrupt the healing process. The healing process for socket preservation can take several weeks to several months, depending on the individual case.
The end goal of socket preservation is to preserve the integrity of the socket and the surrounding bone structure so that a dental implant or bridge can be successfully placed at a later date. It can help to prevent the loss of bone density and support the long-term stability of the dental prosthesis.