Socket preservation before implant placement: a systematic review of literature

Relevance of the problem: the resorption and remodelling of the alveolar socket are natural biological processes following tooth extraction. Both vertical and horizontal bone loss occurs, therefore uncontrolled alveolar socket healing after tooth extraction results in unsuccessful implant placement later. As the best time for bone dimension maintenance methods to be applied is right after tooth extraction, socket preservation procedures and materials are suggested as a way to avoid post-operative decrease in bone height and width. Aim of the research: to review and highlight the importance of socket preservation and preparation before implant placement and compare materials used for such procedure. Material and methods: data collection was done using online databases through Lithuanian University of Health Sciences subscription account, such as „PubMed“ , „Science Direct“ and „Wiley Online Library“ . Articles that describe alveolar socket changes after tooth extraction, as well as different materials, used for socket preservation and the principles of controlling bone remodelling were selected for this review. Another criterion was for the articles to be published between 2008 – 2018. Results: materials used for socket preservation do not completely eliminate the occurrence of alveolar bone resorption, but the amount of bone loss, as well as the size of the bone defect is significantly reduced when applying such methods. Conclusions: all bone substitutes can be used alone or in combination. Growth factors or barrier membranes can also be used with composite grafts, which enables the doctor to use them, especially their osteogenic, osteinductive and osteoconductive properties. However, the ideal material for socket preservation remains unknown