Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

Tooth Socket Preservation

Washington DC & Alexandria VA

Tooth Socket Preservation

Tooth Socket Preservation Washington DC & Alexandria VA

Tooth Socket Preservation Washington DC & Alexandria VA

Patients who have a tooth or teeth extracted will often be told that socket preservation should also be performed. After a tooth has been extracted, there is a small hole remaining where the tooth used to be. In order to prevent this socket from closing and additional issues developing, a socket preservation can help protect the socket from closing by placing a graft (typically made of human or animal bone or synthetic material) into the socket of the extracted tooth. Once the graft is properly placed, a collagen membrane is placed over it and the area is sutured shut. In addition to preserving the structural integrity of the face and facilitating a healthy recovery following the extraction of a tooth, socket preservation also reduces the likelihood of a dry socket forming and is an important part of the dental implant process.

At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, our specialty trained periodontists Dr. Justin Zalewsky and Dr. Antara Daru have years of experience treating a wide range of stages of gum disease and placing dental implants. To learn more about socket preservation, our clinic facilities, or to schedule an appointment for a procedure, contact our Alexandria, VA office at (703) 823-2422 or our Washington D.C. office at (202) 296-3360.

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Dr. Alkakhan

Dr. Waleed completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, gaining advanced clinical training in surgical treatments. His thirst for expertise led him to specialize in Periodontics and Implant Surgery at the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). At MUSC, he served as Chief Resident of Periodontics and conducted groundbreaking research on macrophage plasticity during periodontal inflammation, earning a second Master's of Science degree.

Meet Dr. Waleed Alkakhan >

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Dr. Daru

In 2005, Dr. Daru embarked on her educational odyssey, crossing continents to pursue her passion for dentistry. She obtained her Master of Science in Oral Biology and a certificate in Periodontics from the prestigious New York University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2010. During her academic years, she delved into intensive research, particularly focusing on innovative bone regeneration techniques, showcasing her dedication to advancing the field.

Meet Dr. Antara Daru >

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Dr. Fields

Dr. Fields, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, embarked on his dental journey at Georgetown College, where he earned a B.S. degree in biology/chemistry. He then pursued his passion for dentistry, graduating with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) from the University of Louisville in 1989. Additionally, he earned the prestigious Ma.C.S.D. degree, specializing in IV conscious sedation, showcasing his commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge for the benefit of his patients.

Meet Dr. Charles Fields >

Dr. Gupta

Dr. Gupta

Driven by a dedication to excellence, Dr. Gupta embarked on a transformative periodontal residency at the University of Detroit Mercy. Here, she earned her Master of Science and a certificate in Periodontics while simultaneously serving as an adjunct faculty for the School of Dentistry for three years. Her commitment to advancing dental knowledge took her to an international stage, where she presented groundbreaking research on clinical treatment for gum recession and root coverage at a prestigious conference in London.

Meet Dr. Vidushi Gupta > 

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Dr. Zalewsky

Following his military service, Dr. Zalewsky pursued advanced training at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. There, he earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Oral Implantology, along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. This comprehensive training equipped him to handle intricate periodontal conditions and complex oral implant procedures with precision and skill.

Meet Dr. Justin Zalewsky >

Socket Preservation Expectations

Patients having a tooth extracted can have a range of procedural experiences. As long as the teeth have erupted and are visible, they can typically be removed through a simple extraction technique. If you are having a simple tooth extraction, the procedure will begin with administration of a local anesthetic, which will numb the area of the tooth being removed. Although this will lessen the amount of pain experienced, patients will still feel a sense of pressure as the tooth is being removed.

During the extraction process, your periodontist will use tools to elevate the tooth from its sockets along with forceps to grasp the tooth for removal. Gauze will typically be used to control bleeding while this process is occurring. For more invasive cases, it may be necessary to make surgical incisions in the gums or break the tooth into smaller piece so it can be properly removed. Once the tooth has been removed, the graft will be placed in the socket of the tooth that has been removed to prevent the socket from naturally closing. Once the graft is properly placed, the area will be sutured shut and the healing process can begin.

Socket Preservation Aftercare

To ensure that you minimize post-procedural risks and experience and have as smooth a recovery experience as possible, it is essential that you follow post-procedure instructions following your tooth extraction and socket preservation. Post-procedure care will vary from patient to patient and be informed by the type of dental extraction you have, but in general it is important to avoid eating hard foods, refrain from smoking, and limit/avoid physical activity for at least the first two to three days, maybe longer, depending upon the severity of your extraction. Your periodontist may also recommend that you avoid brushing your teeth for the first day following the removal of your tooth.

Patients who have a tooth extraction and socket preservation typically experience mild bleeding following the procedure. To help manage bleeding, place fresh gauze over the socket where the tooth was extracted, replacing the gauze every 30-45 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Swelling following a tooth extraction procedure is also common and can generally be addressed through the use of ice packs and anti-inflammatory over-the-counter medication.

Once you have completed the healing process, it will not be necessary to follow additional aftercare instructions; however, in order to maximize the benefits of your procedure, it is imperative that you continue practicing good daily oral hygiene practices. Be sure to brush and floss twice daily and continue scheduling regular visits to your dentist or periodontist. These regular visits ensure that your teeth will receive regular professional cleanings and will also reduce your risk of underlying issues such as gingivitis or periodontitis from developing. If you follow these best practices, you will enjoy a bright and healthy smile for many years to come!

Socket Preservation Cost

The cost of socket preservation will vary depending upon a variety of factors, including your dental insurance plan, what procedure is being performed in conjunction and in addition to your socket preservation, and the severity of your case.

At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are committed to ensuring that money is not a deterrent to our patients receiving the optimal dental health care they deserve. For this reason, we offer a range of payment options regardless of what type of treatment you are having, which our staff will be happy to explain and assist with. Our office insurance coordinators work with other insurance companies to assist patients with their claims.

For your convenience, Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry accepts cash, check, debit and credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, Visa, and Discover). Our clinic also accepts GreenSky Patient Solutions, a financing option for procedures and treatments not typically covered by insurance, or when insurance does not cover the entire cost. We are happy to provide an application in our office, you can find out more information about this service at https://www.greensky.com/patient-faq/.

Precision in Perio - 2019 Team

Providing you with Optimal Care

At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are proud to provide optimal care for patients in the Washington D.C. and Alexandria, VA area, and are dedicated to collaborating with your dentist to provide you with the customized treatment you deserve. In addition to having state-of-the-art equipment, we are also committed to creating a peaceful and relaxing environment, with amenities such as personal movie screens, neck pillows, and soft blankets available regardless of what procedure you are having performed.

To schedule your appointment for a tooth extraction and/or socket preservation, contact us today. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a bright and healthy smile!

Washington DC

2311 M Street NW Suite 500
Washington D.C. 20037
(202) 296-3360

Alexandria VA

4660 Kenmore Avenue #300
Alexandria, VA 22304
(703) 823-2422

Reston VA

1886 Metro Center Dr #610
Reston, VA 20190
(703) 689-4442