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Ridge Preservation

A proactive procedure performed at the time of extraction to prevent bone loss, protect the jaw ridge, and keep your future treatment options open.

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What Is Ridge Preservation?

Ridge preservation is a procedure performed immediately after a tooth is extracted to prevent the surrounding bone from collapsing into the empty socket. When a tooth is removed, the jawbone that once supported it begins to shrink and deteriorate within weeks, a process that can significantly complicate future implant placement or other restorations if left unaddressed.

Ridge preservation is not a separate procedure, it is performed at the same appointment as your extraction. Addressing the socket immediately after removal gives the site the best possible chance of maintaining its shape and volume for future treatment.

Ridge preservation is recommended whenever a tooth is extracted and future restoration is being considered. Your provider will place bone grafting material into the socket and close the site to allow healing to begin, giving you the strongest possible foundation for whatever comes next in your treatment plan.

Here is what most patients can expect from the process at a glance:

45–60
Minutes typical procedure duration
3–6
Months for the site to fully heal before implant placement

When Is Ridge Preservation Recommended?

 
Your provider may recommend ridge preservation if any of the following apply to your dental condition or treatment plan.
 
 

Tooth extraction

Any planned tooth removal where future implant placement or restoration is being considered and the socket needs to be preserved immediately after extraction.

Preparing for dental implants

Patients planning implant placement who need to maintain sufficient bone volume at the extraction site before the implant can be placed.

Preventing bone collapse

Patients at risk of rapid bone loss after extraction who want to maintain the natural shape and volume of the jaw ridge for future treatment.

Keeping future options open

Patients who are not yet ready to commit to a restoration but want to preserve the site now so all treatment options remain available down the road.

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What To Expect

Here is how the ridge preservation process typically works at Smart Dental Network.
  
Dentist explaining to patient
1

Consultation and evaluation

Your provider reviews your dental history, examines the extraction site, and confirms that ridge preservation is the right approach to protect the socket and maintain bone volume for future treatment.

2

Your procedure

Immediately after the tooth is removed, your provider places bone grafting material into the socket and closes the site to prevent bone collapse and allow the preservation process to begin undisturbed.

3

Healing and next steps

The preserved site takes several months to fully heal before implant placement or other restoration can begin. Your provider will monitor progress at follow-up visits and confirm the site is ready before moving forward.

Recovery & Aftercare

Here is what to keep in mind in the days and weeks following your ridge preservation procedure.

First few days

Rest and swelling

Some swelling, tenderness, and minor bleeding in the first 24 to 48 hours is normal. Stick to soft foods, avoid the extraction site when brushing, and keep your head elevated to minimize swelling during initial healing.

As directed

Medications and oral care

Take any prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics as directed and use any recommended mouth rinse to keep the site clean. Avoid brushing directly over the preserved socket until your provider confirms it is safe to do so.

Ongoing

Follow-up and monitoring

Ridge preservation takes several months to fully heal before the next phase of treatment can begin. Your provider will schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor the site and confirm it is ready to move forward.

Other Surgical Perio Procedures  

 
Explore the full range of surgical periodontal treatments available across Smart Dental Network locations.
 
 

Bone Grafting

A procedure that restores bone that has been lost due to gum disease, creating a stable foundation for the teeth and supporting long-term oral health.

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Gingivectomy

Surgical removal of excess or diseased gum tissue to eliminate deep pockets and restore a healthier gum line.

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Gum Grafting

Restores receded gum tissue by covering exposed root surfaces to reduce sensitivity and prevent further recession.

Learn more →

Guided Tissue Regeneration

A procedure using a specialized membrane to encourage the regrowth of bone and gum tissue destroyed by advanced gum disease.

Learn more →

Periodontal Plastic Surgery

Reshapes the gum line to improve appearance and correct issues such as a gummy smile or uneven gum levels.

Learn more →

Ridge Augmentation

Rebuilds the natural contour of the jaw ridge after tooth loss to create a proper foundation for implants or restorations.

Learn more →

Sinus Lift

Adds bone to the upper jaw near the molars to create sufficient bone height for safe implant placement.

Learn more →
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Related Resources

 
From our resource center, helpful reading before or after your Ridge Preservation treatment.
 
  
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