Prior to the extraction of a tooth (due to periodontal disease, abscess, traumatic injury, fracture, or other cause of tooth loss) it is critical to preserve the bone at the site where the extraction is required. If not, the jawbone will degenerate following extraction. Preserving your jawbone is always the ideal treatment as compared to trying to repair a deficient jaw.

Using techniques of bone grafting discussed in earlier sections, we can preserve and grow new bone at the time of extraction for optimal function and esthetics, whether you choose to have dental implants or the placement of a fixed bridge.