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