Preservation of Bone Volume in Implant-Supported Post-Extraction Sockets: Tissue Conditioning during Prosthetic Rehabilitation

Socket preservation is a vital procedure in oral surgery to maintain the integrity of the alveolar ridge following tooth extraction, providing a favourable environment for subsequent implant placement. The success of post-extractive implantology relies on osseointegration and the establishment of harmonious soft tissue contours. A supporting literature review was conducted to analyse the socket preservation technique and the role of prosthodontics in facilitating optimal soft tissue healing. Relevant studies and clinical trials published between 2000 and 2023 were included. The search was performed using electronic databases, such as PubMed, Embase, and Scopus, using keywords related to socket preservation, post-extractive implantology, prosthodontics, and soft tissue conditioning. Socket preservation techniques, such as guided bone regeneration and biomaterials, have been proven effective in minimising bone resorption and preserving the alveolar ridge volume. However, with proper consideration of the prosthetic aspects, these techniques may yield optimal aesthetic outcomes. Prosthodontics plays a crucial role in soft tissue conditioning by providing provisional restorations, functional and esthetic support, and contouring the emergence profile. The socket preservation technique in oral surgery is fundamental for successful post-extractive implantology. However, it is equally important to consider the prosthodontic aspects to ensure adequate soft tissue conditioning. Provisional restorations can help shape the surrounding soft tissues, maintaining a proper emergence profile and enhancing the final aesthetic outcome.