Socket-shield Technique for Immediate Implant Placement

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to gain more insight regarding the potential application of a novel technique known as socket shield (SS) with respective to immediate implant placement in the esthetic zone. The recently popularized socket technique involves intentional retention of a thin buccal section of the remnant root at the time of immediate implant placement to preserve the buccal crestal bone from resorption. Histological evidence demonstrated the formation of periodontal ligament and/or cementum on the implant surfaces in contact with/in proximity to the SS. Some clinical reports indicated stable results at 12 months. However, a few studies also reported infection and resorption of the SS and bone loss. It would be difficult to predict the long-term success of this technique until high-quality evidence becomes available. Given some negative results, clinicians are recommended to use this technique with caution. Reason of this review is to provide updated knowledge and awareness in the SS for immediate implant placement.