Open flap socket shield in the esthetic zone

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Surgery
• Implantology

Background:

• Buccal plate resorption post-extraction complicates esthetic zone dental implants.
• The socket shield technique aims to preserve buccal bone and midfacial tissue.
• This technique is technically demanding, requiring precise execution.

Observation:

• A case report details an immediate implant in the maxillary right central incisor with high lip line and esthetic demands.
• An open flap approach was utilized for enhanced visibility during root portion extraction and shield preparation.
• This approach aimed to minimize complications from inadequate shield preparation.

Findings:

• The open flap approach facilitated meticulous buccal shield preparation and accurate implant placement.
• No adverse effects like soft tissue scarring were observed after 1 year of loading.
• Excellent maintenance of tissue volume, color, and contour was achieved.

Implications:

• An open flap approach can be a viable alternative for the socket shield technique in specific challenging cases.
• This modification may improve surgical control and reduce complications, especially for patients with high esthetic demands.
• The findings support the efficacy of the socket shield technique, potentially enhanced by surgical approach modifications, in achieving predictable long-term esthetic outcomes.