How Socket Preservation Helps After A Tooth Extraction

Socket preservation can either utilize a collagen plug as a hole filler or a bone grafting procedure to preserve your jaw in the area where your tooth was extracted. This graft can be made of synthetic material, bone from other animals (usually a cow), or human bone. After your dental professional puts the bone graft in your socket, they usually cover it up with a layer of collagen, and then they suture your gum tissue.

Not all dental professionals consider it a necessary or valuable procedure, and some don't offer it at the time of extraction at all. According to the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, there isn't sufficient evidence that it leads to higher dental implant success rates or improved long-term health. If you are interested in the procedure, or your dental professional has recommended it for you, it's worth discussing the pros and cons so you can come to a decision together.

After your socket preservation procedure, you can expect to experience pain and discomfort for about a week or two. Your dental professional may prescribe medication for pain and swelling. Some tips to ensure a successful recovery include:

• Rest for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
• Raise your head slightly when lying down.
• Avoid rinsing your mouth right away, as it can affect your healing time.
• Avoid drinking with a straw and spitting.
• Avoid hot liquids and or alcohol.
• If possible, avoid blowing your nose and sneezing.
• Don't smoke or use any tobacco products for at least three days following the procedure.
• Take pain relievers as prescribed. They can also reduce inflammation.
• Reduce or minimize swelling with an ice pack on your cheek for 10-20 minutes at a time.
• After a few days, you can rinse your mouth with a saline rinse or warm salt water to kill bacteria.
• Continue regular brushing and using water flossers or interdental brushes, but avoid cleaning the teeth next to your extraction area.
• Eat soft, healthy foods and snacks that don't require a lot of chewing, like soups, yogurts, and similar foods. Avoid foods like nuts, hard candy, steak, and chewing on ice.

If the pain doesn't seem to be subsiding after a week or two, or your condition concerns you, call your dental professional for a follow-up appointment. Tooth extraction and socket preservation are straightforward procedures. As long as you follow your dental professional's advice, you should recover and be smiling about your oral health in no time.

Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.