Atraumatic extraction is a minimally invasive tooth removal technique designed to preserve bone and gum tissue during the extraction process. Unlike conventional tooth extraction, which often involves cutting bone around the tooth, atraumatic extraction uses specialized instruments and techniques to gently separate the tooth from its socket with minimal tissue damage. Planning for implant placement should ideally begin before extraction, and atraumatic extraction is critical to success because it prevents further loss of bone and tissue.
Every bit of bone and tissue preserved during extraction helps ensure proper placement of future dental implants. It is hard to regenerate the bone if it is lost in its height. Conventional extraction methods can result in significant bone loss — sometimes 40–60% of socket volume in the first year. This bone loss complicates implant positioning, esthetics, and longevity. With atraumatic extraction, patients preserve the foundation needed for implants, often avoiding the need for costly bone grafting.
These are some of the atraumatic techniques which we utilize on a routine basis at our clinic:
In conventional extraction, bone around the tooth is often cut to allow forcep access and leverage. This approach is fast but destructive. Atraumatic extraction takes longer but preserves bone height, width, and architecture — all critical for implant success.
After atraumatic extraction, consider socket preservation (bone grafting) to further stabilize the site. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to normal activities within a few days. Dr. Roy will discuss timing for implant placement — typically 3–6 months after extraction and grafting to allow bone maturation.
Schedule a consultation to discuss atraumatic extraction and your implant timeline.