If you lose a tooth, whether from gum disease, tooth decay or other trauma, replacing the tooth with an implant or other option will help prevent the remaining teeth from shifting, and also help to preserve the bone and gum tissue around the adjacent teeth. Placing a bone graft at the time of tooth removal will also help prevent further bone loss as the area heals. Whether you decide to move forward with an implant immediately or down the road, a bone graft will also help preserve the existing bone and prevent further bone loss for implant placement in the area, or provide a more solid foundation for a bridge or other tooth replacement option.