This study investigates the long-term performance of the Socket Shield Technique (SST) for preserving the bone and soft tissue around dental implants when used with two different timing protocols: immediate versus delayed implant placement. SST is a surgical technique where a thin portion of the tooth root (the buccal shield) is intentionally retained to support the facial bone and gum tissues after tooth extraction. While SST is known to enhance esthetics and preserve bone in the short term, little evidence exists on its long-term effectiveness in different clinical scenarios. This randomized clinical trial enrolled patients who needed single-tooth implants in the esthetic zone. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Immediate SST group: the implant was placed at the same time the socket shield was prepared. Delayed SST group: implant placement was performed six months after socket shield preparation. Over a 6-year follow-up period, both groups were evaluated for: Changes in ridge width and bone height using CBCT imaging. Esthetic outcomes using the Pink Esthetic Score (PES). Patient satisfaction through a structured questionnaire. The goal is to determine whether SST offers reliable long-term outcomes in either immediate or delayed implant placement scenarios, supporting its broader clinical use.
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Horizontal Ridge Width Change at 1, 2, 4, and 6 mm Apical to the Implant Platform
Timeframe: Immediately after implant placement (baseline), 1 year, and 6 years post-placement