Socket Shield Complications: The Management of Internal Shield Exposure. A Multicenter Case Series

Area of Science:

• Oral surgery
• Periodontology
• Dental implantology

Background:

• The socket shield technique is a surgical approach to preserve the buccal plate after tooth extraction.
• This technique aims for soft tissue stability and favorable esthetic results.
• However, potential complications exist, notably internal exposure of the socket shield.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the etiology, diagnosis, treatment, management, and prevention of internal socket shield exposure.
• To present data from a case series on this specific complication.

Main Methods:

• A case series approach was utilized.
• Data were collected from 10 patients experiencing 12 internally exposed socket shield sites.

Main Results:

• Internal exposure of the socket shield is a recognized complication.
• This complication can manifest as inflammation of the inner soft tissues, potentially with partial shield visibility.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the causes and presentation of internal socket shield exposure is crucial.
• Effective management and preventative strategies are necessary to mitigate this complication and ensure successful treatment outcomes.