Redefining Immediate Implant Aesthetics with Socket-shield Technique: A Case Report

Abstract

Tooth loss has been a longstanding issue, prompting the exploration of various treatment modalities. Dental Implants have emerged as one such biocompatible treatment modality for replacement of missing teeth. Following tooth extraction preservation of facial alveolar bone and soft-tissue architecture is critical for achieving optimal aesthetic outcomes in the anterior maxilla. Physiologic post-extraction remodelling, particularly resorption of the buccal plate, often compromises aesthetic results even with immediate implant placement. Conventional extraction and implant protocols may not completely prevent these dimensional changes. The Socket-shield Technique (SST) is a biologically driven approach that aims to preserve the periodontal ligament-bundle bone complex through intentional retention of the buccal root fragment, thereby limiting post-extraction hard and soft-tissue collapse. Hereby, the authors described the clinical application of SST with immediate implant placement in a 27-year-old male patient presenting with repeated fracture of a composite restoration in a previously endodontically treated maxillary left central incisor (21). Clinical and radiographic follow-up demonstrated preservation of the facial bone contour, stable peri-implant soft-tissues and favourable aesthetic outcomes. Within the limitations of a single case, SST appears to be a viable option for managing aesthetically demanding anterior maxillary implant sites when performed with careful case selection and surgical precision.