Current perspectives on the role of ridge (socket) preservation procedures in dental implant treatment in the aesthetic zone

Augmentation of the extraction socket (ridge preservation) is increasingly being advocated in anticipation of implant placement. The aim of this article is to review the available evidence with regards to ridge preservation procedures, investigating whether these techniques improve dental implant treatment outcomes. Evidence is examined to compare these techniques to other treatment alternatives such as implant placement with simultaneous lateral augmentation. An electronic PubMed search was conducted using search terms relevant to assessing treatment outcomes in association with ridge preservation. Titles were screened and full text obtained where relevant. Further full text articles were obtained from analysis of those papers yielded from the original search. Twenty-two papers were finally selected for analysis. Ridge preservation techniques are effective in minimizing post-extraction alveolar ridge contraction. However, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that the use of these techniques in conjunction with dental implant treatment improves implant treatment outcomes. Furthermore, ridge preservation does not necessarily eliminate the need for further simultaneous augmentation at the time of implant placement. The delayed healing associated with ridge preservation using socket grafting necessitates a commitment to a delayed placement protocol. The extended treatment time, compromised healing and expense related to ridge preservation suggests a more cautious approach with regards to the indication of such techniques.