Postextraction maintenance of the alveolar ridge: rationale and review

Alveolar ridge resorption has long been considered an unavoidable consequence of tooth extraction and can be a significant problem in implant and restorative dentistry. Postextraction maintenance of the alveolar ridge minimizes residual ridge resorption and allows placement of an implant that satisfies both esthetic and functional criteria. Guided bone-regeneration techniques and the use of bone-replacement materials have been shown to enhance socket healing and potentially modify the resorption process. The prime indication for socket preservation is the prevention of alveolar-bone and soft-tissue collapse, which would cause unacceptable prosthesis esthetics. This review describes the rationale behind socket preservation, and the various techniques and materials used for extraction site grafting.