Extraction Sites

Treating Extraction Sites

After a tooth extraction, the gum heals down in the socket before the bone has time to completely reform, leaving a resorbed ridge. To prevent bone resorption after extraction, we suggest the socket be filled with a material (bone graft) that reduces gum shrinkage or the socket be isolated with a membrane that prevents gum downgrowth. Treating the problem before it occurs is ideal.

Without treatment, gumdowngrowth into the socket after extraction (click for a larger view)	Membrane placed over extraction site to prevent gum downgrowth, allowing bone time to fill socket (click for a larger view)
Socket after extraction	Membrane sutured in place
At 6 months, bone healed without shrinkage