Tooth Extractions & Bone Grafting Braintree

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

There are a number of reasons why the removal of one or more teeth may become necessary:

• Severe Tooth Decay: When decay has damaged a tooth beyond what a filling or crown can restore, extraction may be the healthiest option.
• Advanced Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Gum disease can weaken the bone and tissues that support the teeth, sometimes making tooth extraction necessary to protect oral health and preserve surrounding tissues.
• Fractured or Broken Teeth: Teeth that are cracked or broken below the gumline and cannot be saved need to be extracted.
• Preparation for Dental Implants or Restorative Treatment: Non-viable teeth are sometimes removed as a part of a treatment plan to make room for dental implants or other long-term restorations.
• Infection: A tooth that is seriously infected and that does not respond to treatment may require removal to protect nearby tissues.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

Before your tooth extraction, we will take time to ensure your comfort. The area will be thoroughly numbed, and sedation options may be available for patients who feel anxious.

Most tooth extractions are straightforward and performed gently. Once the tooth is loosened, it is carefully removed from the socket. In some cases, a more complex or surgical approach may be needed to safely remove the tooth. After the extraction, the area is cleaned, and gauze is placed to help control bleeding. If a bone graft is recommended, it is often placed at this time to support proper healing and future tooth replacement.

You may be surprised by how quick and manageable the process feels, and our team will review what to expect during recovery and answer any questions before you leave.

What Is Bone Grafting?

A bone graft is simply a material that we place into that socket that was created when the tooth was removed. The bone ends up being very much like a sand kind of consistency. The bone is then simply placed in around the dental implant or into the socket to fill the entire space. The graft acts as a scaffolding and provides the minerals and the proteins that your body needs to regenerate that bone that has been lost. 

This occurs because your bone is in a constant state of turnover. That's why when you fracture a bone, it heals, and the same is true in your mouth. The grafted bone will eventually be indistinguishable from your own. In other words, it becomes yours!

When we do a dental implant at the time of tooth extraction and place a bone graft, we typically allow about four months of healing. During that four months of healing, most of the grafted bone becomes yours, and it allows time for the dental implant to osseointegrate, or for the bone to grow into the implant itself, which then allows for a nice support for a crown later on.

Healing & What to Expect After Treatment

After your extraction and bone graft, it is normal to experience mild soreness and swelling for a few days. These symptoms are usually manageable with over-the-counter medication. Following your post-op instructions and keeping the area clean will help ensure smooth healing and support the best possible outcome.

Ready to Protect your Smile and Plan for the Future?

If you need a tooth extraction or are considering bone grafting to support dental implants, our periodontal team can guide you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today to explore your options and ensure the healthiest, most confident smile possible.