Implantologia post-estrattiva in presenza di lesioni endodontiche

Objectives To examine immediate post-extraction implant placement, a well accepted protocol because of the preservation of aesthetics, shorter total treatment time, maintenance of socket walls, reduced surgical time, and better implant placement. Materials and methods On the contrary, the placement of dental implants soon after the removal of a tooth with periapical and/or periodontal pathology is still debated. The disadvantage of this technique is related to the potential risk of implant contamination during the initial healing period due to remnants of the infection. Nevertheless, evidence arising from the treatment of vertebral osteomyelitis in orthopedic surgery suggest that the absolute avoidance of implant placement in the presence of periapical and/or periodontal pathology might be a misconception. Results In fact, the analysis of the international scientific literature shows that with an immediate implant placement for the replacement of teeth with periapical lesions, success can be achieved if some pre- and postoperative measures are followed, such as antibiotic administration, meticulous cleaning, and alveolar debridement before the surgical procedure. Conclusions A high success rate, the preservation of hard and soft tissues, and a good general patient satisfaction with aesthetics and functional outcome show that this clinical procedure can be considered a safe, effective, and predictable treatment option for the prompt rehabilitation of fresh post-extraction infected sockets