[Clinical evaluation of socket shield technique in maxillary anterior region]

Objective: To evaluate the preliminary clinical outcome of socket shield technique in maxillary anterior region. Methods: Nine patients were treated with socket shield technique in Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology from February 2012 to December 2015 were enrolled in this study. Ten implants were placed and restored immediately. After 12-48 months' follow-up (averaged 32 months), the peri-implant hard and soft tissue were clinically evaluated. Results: No implants were lost during the observation period, resulting a cumulate 32-month survival. The pink esthetic score (PES) was 13.5. Mesial and distal bone loss were 0.17 mm and 0.22 mm respectively. Conclusions: To achieve good esthetic results, socket shield technique may be an option for maxillary anterior region immediate implant placement.