Buccal bone deficiency in fresh extraction sockets: a prospective single cohort study

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Periodontology
• Regenerative Dentistry

Background:

• Buccal bone defects in fresh extraction sockets compromise esthetic zone implant placement.
• Ridge preservation techniques are crucial for maintaining alveolar bone height and width.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate xenograft and collagen membranes for treating buccal bone defects in fresh extraction sockets.
• To assess the efficacy of these materials in the esthetic zone prior to implant placement.

Main Methods:

• Prospective single cohort study of 33 patients with buccal bone plate deficiency (>2 mm).
• Treatment involved corticocancellous porcine bone and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) with a collagen membrane.
• Secondary soft tissue healing was allowed with exposed membranes.

Main Results:

• All sites facilitated implant placement.
• Significant increase in keratinized mucosa width (2.3 mm at 5 months, 3.2 mm at 1 year).
• Improved facial soft tissue levels and bone levels (0.8 mm mesial, 0.7 mm distal).

Conclusions:

• Xenograft and PRF are effective for ridge preservation in extraction sockets with buccal bone dehiscence.
• Secondary healing did not impede bone formation; soft tissue and gingival width improved.
• The technique supports successful implant placement in the esthetic zone.