Unrestorable tooth extraction with immediate implant placement is considered one of the best treatment options in restoring the esthetics and function. Extraction socket resorption is considered a challenging procedure when it involves the esthetics zone. The preservation of the entire attachment apparatus for complete preservation of the alveolar ridge makes socket shield technique a promising procedure that helps to maintain anatomy, esthetics and function. Socket shield technique, eliminate the negative consequences of bone resorption of the buccal plate of bone; leading to maintaining hard and soft tissue contours and provides a perfect pleasing esthetic result with good function. It is a highly promising technique in terms of maintaining pink and white esthetics through preservation of the interdental papilla during preparation of the interdental socket shield. It is considered a minimally invasive surgical procedure and offers the advantages of immediate implant placement.
The study was conducted on 20 immediate implant placement sites in the anterior maxillary region. In the study group, 10 implants were inserted using socket shield technique, while in control group, 10 implants were inserted using conventional immediate placement technique. All patients received immediate and 6 months post-operative CBCT to assess horizontal bone loss, vertical bone loss, and measurement of bone density. Implant stability quotients (ISQs) was measured immediately, 1st, 3rd and 6 months post-operatively.