Facing a tooth extraction and worried about the empty space? Socket preservation—also called ridge preservation—is a simple, effective procedure we perform immediately after removing a tooth to help maintain the bone and gum shape. If you’re considering a future dental implant (even if you’re not ready yet), this small step can make a big difference in your long-term smile.

Why Bone Shrinks After Tooth Loss

Bone needs stimulation from a tooth root to stay full and strong. Once a tooth is removed, the body begins remodeling the socket, often leading to shrinkage—especially in the first few months. That shrinkage can make later implant placement more complex or affect the esthetic result in the front of the mouth.

How Socket Preservation Works

After an atraumatic extraction, we place bone graft material into the socket and cover it with a protective membrane. The site is then secured to allow undisturbed healing. Over time, your body replaces graft particles with your own bone, preserving volume for future treatments.

Benefits You’ll Notice

• Better implant options later: More bone often means simpler surgery and stronger implant stability.
• Improved esthetics: Helps maintain the natural curve of your gums for a seamless future crown.
• Streamlined timeline: In many cases, we can place an implant sooner.

What to Expect on Surgery Day

We’ll numb the area thoroughly and, if you’d like, offer sedation for added relaxation. The extraction itself is gentle and focused on preserving surrounding bone. Most visits take about an hour for a single tooth, and you can return to light activities the same day.

Recovery & Diet

Plan on soft foods and careful chewing for a few days. Avoid straws and smoking, and follow all instructions for rinsing and medications. Mild swelling is normal; cold compresses and over-the-counter pain relief usually handle it well. We’ll schedule a follow-up to make sure healing progresses as expected.

When Will I Be Ready for an Implant?

Many patients are ready in a few months, though timing varies by tooth position and biology. We’ll review updated X-rays or a CBCT scan to confirm bone readiness and align your implant timeline with your schedule.

Alternatives If You’re Not Planning an Implant

Socket preservation is still worthwhile if you’re considering a bridge or partial later. Preserving ridge shape supports a more natural appearance and can simplify future restorative work. If you’re sure you won’t replace the tooth, we’ll still discuss ways to keep neighboring teeth healthy and your bite balanced.

Why Choose Connect Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

Our practice focuses on extractions, grafting, and implant care every day. You’ll receive clear guidance, gentle treatment, and cost transparency. We’ll also coordinate with your general dentist so your temporary and final restorations look and feel just right.

Planning an extraction? Call Connect Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (310) 473-8770 or Contact Us to schedule in Los Angeles.