What Is 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.
Ridge Preservation: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | Done at the extraction visit |
| Time needed | Adds about 15 to 20 minutes |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia |
| Recovery time | Similar to a routine extraction |
| Ready for an implant | Usually after 3 to 6 months |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
When Ridge Preservation Is Recommended
The bone around a socket starts to shrink within weeks of an extraction, and most of the loss happens in the first six months. Filling the socket at the time of extraction keeps the ridge closer to its original shape.
- A tooth is being extracted and an implant is planned later
- The extraction is in a visible area of the smile
- The outer wall of the socket is thin or damaged
- A bridge is planned and the gum contour matters
- You want to keep future options open
Ridge Preservation at Bensonhurst Dental Care
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.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Gentle extraction. The tooth is removed with as little damage to the socket as possible.
- Cleaning. Infected tissue is removed from the socket.
- Graft. The socket is filled with graft material.
- Cover. A membrane or plug protects the graft and the gum is stitched.
- Healing. The site matures for three to six months.
Extraction with and without ridge preservation
| Feature | With ridge preservation | Without |
|---|---|---|
| Ridge width after healing | Largely maintained | Often noticeably reduced |
| Later implant placement | More often possible without extra grafting | Grafting more likely |
| Gum contour | More even | Can sink in |
| Added surgery time | About 15 to 20 minutes | None |
The easiest time to keep bone is the day the tooth comes out. Rebuilding it later is always a bigger procedure.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your visit
The first 24 hours
- Bite on gauze and avoid rinsing or spitting
- Do not smoke or use a straw
- Eat soft, cool foods on the other side
The following days and weeks
- Rinse gently with salt water after 24 hours
- Keep food away from the site
- Return for a healing check before implant planning
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- Graft granules keep coming out in quantity
- Pain worsens after three days
- Swelling, pus or a bad taste develops
Planning for an Implant
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.
Cost and Insurance
The fee for periodontal treatment depends on how much of the mouth is affected and on whether surgery or grafting is needed. You receive a written estimate after your gum evaluation.
What affects the cost
- The number of teeth or areas treated
- Whether treatment is non-surgical or surgical
- Graft materials and membranes, where used
- Sedation, if you choose it
Many dental plans contribute to gum disease treatment and maintenance. Benefits are often set per quarter of the mouth. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
