Extraction sites--foundations for restorative excellence

Preservation of the socket site architecture promotes better esthetics, easier prosthetic treatment, and restoration of the alveolar bone for implant or bridge replacement options. The purported simplicity of the simple extraction can be misleading if the bone housing or soft tissues have been ravaged by disease. This article provides guidelines for case selection, patient consultations, selection of appropriate materials, and a step-by-step methodology for completing successful extraction site therapy.