When we lose a tooth or have one extracted, the area could lead to the loss of mass and density in the jawbone. This means the potential for an older appearance and difficulties placing dental implants. But in today’s blog, your Santa Rosa, CA, oral surgeons talk about how we preserve your ridge.
What Happens Following Tooth Loss or Tooth Extraction
When we lose a tooth to issues like cavities, infection, injury, or gum disease, or if one is extracted, then the body will take note of the missing root and suspend the flow of calcium and phosphates to the area around the missing root. As a result, the bone tissue breaks down, which means further tooth loss and eventually, an aged appearance. This weakened structure could also complicate your ability to remove dental implants. Which is why we take action to preserve the site and keep it strong and full until we can place one or more dental implants.
The Ridge Preservation Process
The ridge preservation process means that after we extract a tooth, or after one is lost, we will administer a unique biocompatible material to the extraction site. This material will prevent the body from resorbing the surrounding bone tissue, preserving the strength of the jaw and preventing further tooth loss or an aged appearance. Not only does this prevent further complications, this ensures your smile is now ready to receive dental implants to replace what has been lost!
Placing Your New Teeth
When the area heals, our team will begin planning the placement of dental implants. We insert a biocompatible post into the jaw, which acts as a new root. This stimulates the growth of bone tissue to prevent it from breaking down, so your new tooth can last for decades to come, possibly even a lifetime. When the placement area heals, we will add an abutment to the post that extends above the gum line. We then connect a dental crown to the abutment, completing your new tooth. The crown is of course designed to look natural and blend with your smile.
If you have any questions about how we treat missing teeth by securing a dental implant, or about how we preserve the extraction site with ridge preservation, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to keep your smile whole and healthy!
Do You Have Questions About Protecting Your Smile?
Our team wants to help protect your smile and ensure you’re ready for dental implants if needed. To learn more about preventing the loss of mass and density in your smile, then schedule a consultation by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery in Santa Rosa, CA, today at 707-545-4625.