Socket Preservation in Louisville, KY & New Albany, IN
The bone that holds the tooth in place, the socket, is often damaged by gum disease or an infection resulting in the shrinkage of the bone when the tooth is removed. This shrinkage of socket can create significant irregularities in the tissue where the tooth previously was. This can make restorations with implants, fixed bridges, or removable dentures difficult to achieve.
The Benefits of Socket Preservation
Socket preservation promotes a healthy recovery following a tooth extraction, but it also does more:
- Cosmetic Benefits – if a tooth socket is not preserved following an extraction, the jawbone will begin to atrophy, causing permanent aesthetic changes to your facial structure.
- Dental Implants – All types of dental restorations require good gum and jaw support. Socket preservation allows for a wide range of tooth replacement options in your future.
Research has proven that gum disease is now associated with several other diseases. For quite some time it was thought that bacteria were the factor that linked periodontal disease to other diseases in the body. More recent research demonstrates that inflammation can be responsible for the association. Treating inflammation will not only help manage gum disease but might also help with the control of other chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Diabetes and Periodontal Disease- Those with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, which in turn will increase blood sugar and complications. People with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease than those without because people with diabetes are more susceptible to contracting infections. Research has suggested that the relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease goes both ways - periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar. Severe gum disease can increase blood sugar, contributing to the body functioning with a high blood sugar. This puts people with diabetes at increased risk for diabetic complications.
- Heart Disease and Periodontal Disease- Studies have shown that gum disease is associated with heart disease. While the cause-and-effect relationship has not yet been established, research has indicated that gum disease will increase the risk of heart disease. Scientists believe that inflammation from the gum disease may be responsible for the association. Gum disease can also exacerbate existing heart conditions. Additional studies have also found a relationship between gum disease and stroke.
- Other Systematic Diseases and Periodontal Disease- A link has been suggested between jawbone loss and Studies also suggest that osteoporosis can lead to tooth loss because the density of the bone that supports the teeth might be decreased, which means the teeth will no longer have a solid foundation. Bacteria that grow in the oral cavity can also be aspirated into the lungs to cause respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, especially in people with gum disease. Men with gum disease are 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancers.
Contact Our Practice Today
Our goal is to get you back to smiling and chewing with confidence. With our qualified staff and compassionate team, we will listen to your questions and desires to find the best solution for your dental health.
The Socket Preservation Procedure
This technique involves a careful extraction to prevent damage to the surrounding bone, and the filling of the empty socket with bone grafting material. Often a biocompatible barrier membrane is added to prevent the soft tissue from filling the space before bone can form. The gum tissue is then closed over the bone graft and the barrier membrane. This proactive treatment allows PerioImplant Associates to control and minimize shrinkage after extraction.
Eventually both the bone graft and barrier membrane are resorbed, or dissolved, by your body. Before this occurs, they facilitate the natural ability to repair itself by regenerating lost bone and tissue. It usually takes four to six months before the regenerated bone is dense enough to allow the placement of an implant. Sometimes a temporary restoration can be provided at the same time the tooth is extracted and then the socket is preserved to maximize your esthetics, comfort, and functionality.
Socket Preservation Treatment Costs
The cost of your socket preservation treatment will depend on your individual needs and your treatment plan. We will discuss with you the cost of your socket preservation treatment, insurance coverage, and available payment options before we begin, so that you can make the best choice for your situation.
Our Specialists Tell Our Story Best
Ramsey Burton, DMD
Dr. Ramsey Burton is originally from Nashville, TN. He received both his undergraduate and doctorate degrees from the University of Louisville. Following dental school, he completed periodontal specialty training at the University of Kentucky.
Courtney Shearer, DMD, MS
Dr. Courtney Shearer was born and raised in Louisville, KY. She attended Washington and Lee University for her undergraduate degree. She then attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry where she received her Doctorate in Dentistry.
Jodie Lusby, DMD, MSD
Dr. Jodie Lusby is a Board Certified Periodontist and grew up in Florence, KY. He attended the University of Kentucky where he received his biology degree and graduated Magna Cum Laude. He then attended the Louisville School of Dentistry.
A Warm and Caring Welcome to Our Practice
The entire team with PerioImplant Associates has one primary focus, and that is to serve you. It is natural for you to experience apprehension about seeing a general dentist, or even a dental specialist such as a periodontist. Understanding that anxiety, we will always take our time in explaining the benefits of the procedure that is being proposed for your dental health. Both offices, Louisville, KY, and New Albany, IN, are well-trained to address all health issues and dental concerns. We will highlight the aspects of periodontal treatment, introduce our staff, and explain office policies. Call us today about an evaluation for a socket preservation procedure for you. We will greet you at the front door with a smile and send you home with a healthy smile.