If your dentist has mentioned that you might need to have a socket graft, you might find yourself wondering exactly what this procedure is and what it entails. Below are five facts to help you understand more about this procedure.
1. What is a socket graft?
Socket grafting involves filing the area where a tooth was lost or pulled with bone graft material. Because the surrounding bone deteriorates very quickly once a tooth is removed, filling the socket can decrease the rate of bone erosion. If there’s not enough bone to anchor an implant, the graft can provide a stable base to hold the titanium screw for the implant. Once the implant has been anchored, the tooth snaps firmly onto the base and is held snugly and comfortably in place.
2. Where does the graft material come from?
Bone for grafting procedures can come from the patient’s own body – frequently from the back, chin, hip or shin bones – which will require a surgical procedure to remove the bone. Graft material can also come from a tissue bank, or it can come from cadaver, bovine or synthetic bone, which both reduces cost and eliminates the need for the patient to undergo an additional surgical procedure.
3. Should I get a socket graft?
Because bone erosion can happen relatively quickly, if you’re not sure whether or not you’re going to be getting a dental implant, it’s probably a good idea to go ahead with the grafting procedure. If you decide to get an implant later, you may need to have a second procedure for grafting anyway – and then a third for the implant itself.
4. How much does it cost?
Compared to the cost of a dental extraction – which is typically in the range of $75-$300 – a socket graft can seem a bit costly with a price tag of $700-$900 above the cost of extraction. However, considering the numerous benefits of dental implants, it is likely worth the additional cost – wearing a bridge, or “flipper,” which is like a set of dentures with only one tooth, can be uncomfortable as well as awkward for many people. Especially if you’re not yet at an age where you’re ready for dentures, an implant is a great way to fill the gap without having to fuss excessively over daily maintenance – the implant will function exactly like a normal tooth. Many insurance companies do cover some portion of the socket grafting procedure – give them a call before you schedule your appointment to discuss whether your specific procedure will be covered.
5. What is the recovery time?
Overall, the socket grafting procedure rarely adds additional discomfort to the extraction process. Typically, prescription painkillers are not required, and the recuperation time is usually no longer than it is for the extraction. It’s a good idea to wait 4-6 weeks to complete the dental implant procedure, as some shrinkage of the graft material may occur. A temporary bridge can be placed in the gap during that period.