ALVEOLAR RIDGE PRESERVATION IN THE AESTHETIC ZONE.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Following tooth extraction various alterations in the aesthetic zone of the oral cavity can be expected. These are alveolar bone loss as well as structural and compositional changes of the covering soft tissues. Thus, the clinician is confronted with a challenging situation regarding the decision-making process required to provide an optimal treatment solution. PURPOSE: To highlight the importance of preserving the alveolar ridge in the aesthetic zone as well as presenting the methods that exist to achieve it. METHOD: A review of the literature of the last five years was performed, with keywords such as: alveolar soft tissue volume; assessment method; esthetic dentistry; extraction socket; wound healing. RESULTS: The criteria that affect the maintenance of the alveolar ridge, are the time of placement of the implant, the quality of the bone in the extraction socket and the amount of bone remaining in it. The clinician should also have a picture of the quality of the soft tissues that surround the bone socket. CONCLUSIONS: It is very important to realize that the clinical decision-making process for alveolar ridge preservation in the esthetic zone starts before tooth extraction. The placement of a dental implant in the aesthetic zone can be performed after 2 months if the soft tissues remain Intact. In all other cases where implant placement is not possible, alveolar ridge preservation procedures should be considered.