A gel filling made from calcium phosphate could prevent complications post extraction.

The new gel, designed as an injectable bone substitute, is being tested at Nantes University Hospital, and can be directly injected into the socket immediately after a tooth is removed to encourage the growth of new bone and prevent the surrounding jawbone from shrinking.

Researchers hope the gel will eventually lead to the prevention of unpleasant side effects caused by extractions, and believe that after six months the gel will have completely dissipated, leaving the cavity filled with bone-like tissue.