Ridge Preservation Techniques in the Anterior Esthetic Zone.

PURPOSE: Various techniques have been developed to limit resorption of the alveolar ridge after tooth extraction, and results from using them have been promising. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role and reliability of ridge preservation (RP) in the anterior esthetic zone, in anticipation of later implant placement.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Using the MEDLINE and PubMed databases, searches were performed using combinations of different terms.

RESULTS

A total of 223 studies were identified, from which 55 articles were further examined. Of these, 11 studies were randomized clinical trials, controlled clinical trials, or prospective/retrospective studies with a minimum of 5 subjects and at least 3 months of follow-up. Only human studies of RP for single-rooted tooth or bicuspid sites were included. Selection criteria also excluded studies in which primary closure was obtained.

CONCLUSION

Although a direct comparison of the 11 articles was difficult because of the different techniques, materials, and healing time, no single graft material seemed to be superior. However, all studies found less ridge contraction at grafted than nongrafted sites. Long-term data about the outcomes for implants placed in sites where RP was attempted are still needed.