Socket Preservation Procedure

Preserving Your Jaw Bone after Extraction

Removal of teeth is sometimes necessary because of pain, infection, bone loss, or due to a fracture in the tooth. The bone that holds the tooth in place (the socket) is often damaged by disease and/or infection, resulting in a deformity of the jaw after the tooth is extracted. In addition, when teeth are extracted the surrounding bone and gums can shrink and recede very quickly, resulting in unsightly defects and a collapse of the lips and cheeks.

These jaw defects can create major problems in performing restorative dentistry whether your treatment involves dental implants, bridges, or dentures. Jaw deformities from tooth removal can be prevented and repaired by a procedure called socket preservation. Socket preservation can greatly improve your smile’s appearance and increase your chances for successful dental implants.

Several techniques can be used to preserve the bone and minimize bone loss after an extraction. In one common method, the tooth is removed and the socket is filled with bone or bone substitute. It is then covered with gum, artificial membrane, or tissue, which encourages your body’s natural ability to repair the socket. With this method, the socket heals, eliminating shrinkage and collapse of the surrounding gum and facial tissues. The newly formed bone in the socket also provides a foundation for an implant to replace the tooth. If your dentist has recommended tooth removal, be sure to ask if socket preservation is necessary. This is particularly important if you are planning on replacing the front teeth.

Are you ready to smile with confidence again?

Our mission is to help patients live healthier lives. We provide a caring, nurturing environment where your comfort and health is of primary importance.
Call today to schedule!

Call us: 252-446-0400

Rocky Mount Periodontics and Implant Center

5 out of 5 stars based on 57 Socket Preservation reviews.

Patient Review by Phillip P

Everything was good with Dr. Arrington and staff.

- Phillip P

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Tanya s

Did not feel one bit of pain and Dr. Arrington and Dr. Kim were very encouraging.

- Tanya s

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Pat A

Excellent care. Friendly staff. Very professional.

- Pat A

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Janet B

Dr. Arrington and her staff was very patient, friendly and kind in implementing my painless procedure.

- Janet B

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Mark D

Fast and efficient

- Mark D

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Ellen D

This is not my first preparation and implant and this experience has been my best ever. Dr. Arrington is wonderful!

- Ellen D

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Ronald B

Dr. Kim called me at home to check how I was doing. Everybody from walking into the door to leaving is perfect.

- Ronald B

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Margaret Q

I would recommend this office to any one needing dental care!

- Margaret Q

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Tanya L

courteous, friendly care; all my questions answered; I felt very at ease with the staff on the day of and follow ups to my procedure.

- Tanya L

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Hilda T

Dr. Arrington did an Awesome job and the staff is amazing!

- Hilda T

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Margaret Ann R

Dr. Arrington did a wonderful job and was so on top of things. My surgery went so well. I highly recommend her to other patients>

- Margaret Ann R

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Caleb C

Everyone is very nice and does a good job of explaining the procedure in terms that everyone can understand. They made me feel very comfortable and were friendly at all times. I will for sure come back if I ever have any more dental problems. Thank you.

- Caleb C

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Kristie G

Dr. Arrington and staff are very professional, accommodating and caring. My experience has been easy because they are so good at what they do! They explain and communicate procedures, expectations and directions well, and have always been available when and if I had questions after leaving their office. I am very pleased with the service and care I've received.

- Kristie G

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Lillian B

Everyone was very nice and friendly-very informative . My gums feel fine -happy that this much of the overall process is over Thanks

- Lillian B

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Martha C

There has never been a time I did not look forward to seeing Dr. Kim or Dr. Arrington and their staff.....They make me feel like I am the only patient they have ever seen......and the most important patient...even though I know my mouth is not the only one they have seen that day....I walk away feeling GREAT!

- Martha C

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Helen P

I have never experienced what I have at this office at any other doctor's office, I am not saying there are not any other great doctors (dentists) out there but that has been the best experience so far for me, the kindness, the great listeners and great doctors. I would recommend this office to anyone because I they would be treated great with the service they get here.

- Helen P

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Polly S

It has been an absolute pleasure to receive treatment here! .

- Polly S

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Helen H

Dr. Arrington and staff were and always are very professional and caring. They are concerned about the total well being of each patient. I would highly recommend this staff to anyone. I am glad they are my doctors.

- Helen H

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by John C

great staff and Dr. Arrington is an amazing person as well as a great dentist

- John C

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Anonymous

One couldn't ask for better service! From the initial call through the procedure and follow-up, ALL staff were beyond friendly and helpful. Dr. Arrington and Kim answered all questions and invited me to ask any others I may have. Everyone stressed that I was to call with any questions, concerns or problems. Wish they could be my primary dental care givers too!

- Anonymous

5 out of 5 stars on