Ridge Preservation
Ridge preservation is a procedure performed at the time of tooth extraction to prevent the bone loss and ridge collapse that naturally follow the removal of a tooth. When a tooth is taken out, the socket begins to resorb almost immediately, and over the following weeks and months, the surrounding bone shrinks in both width and height. Ridge preservation places grafting material into the extraction socket to maintain the volume and contour of the bone, keeping the site intact for future treatment.
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, ridge preservation is performed by Dr. Geoffrey Rubinshtein as a proactive measure to protect the jawbone from unnecessary deterioration. The procedure is straightforward and performed at the same appointment as the extraction. After the tooth is removed and the socket is cleaned, biocompatible grafting material is placed into the site and typically covered with a protective membrane. The area heals over the following months, and the bone is preserved at or near its original dimensions.
Ridge preservation is especially important for patients who intend to receive a dental implant but are not ready for immediate placement. Without preservation, the bone loss that occurs during the waiting period can make future implant placement more complicated, often requiring additional bone grafting or ridge augmentation to rebuild what was lost. By preserving the ridge at the time of extraction, patients avoid the need for more extensive and costly procedures later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ridge preservation the same as socket preservation?
Yes. The terms are used interchangeably. Both refer to the placement of grafting material into an extraction socket at the time of tooth removal to prevent bone loss.
Does ridge preservation add to the recovery time after an extraction?
The recovery from a ridge preservation procedure is very similar to a standard extraction. Patients may experience mild swelling and soreness, but healing progresses on a comparable timeline. The graft material integrates quietly while the socket heals.
Is ridge preservation always necessary?
Not every extraction requires ridge preservation. It is most strongly recommended when a future implant is planned, when the extraction site is in an aesthetically visible area, or when the patient has risk factors for significant bone loss. Dr. Geoffrey advises on a case-by-case basis.
What type of grafting material is used?
Several types of material can be used, including donor bone, synthetic bone substitutes, and in some cases the patient's own bone. Dr. Geoffrey selects the most appropriate material for each case based on the clinical situation and the patient's needs.
