Comparison of Three-Dimensional Bone Changes in Socket Shield Technique Versus Immediate Implant Placement - A Non-Randomized Clinical Trial

The present study assessed the three-dimensional bone loss, at three different levels, around implants placed immediately after extraction using the socket shield method versus immediate implant placement. A non-randomized clinical trial was conducted in 30 cases divided into two groups: socket shield method and immediate implant placement (15 cases each). Horizontal bone width (HBW) (at three different levels from baseline) and vertical bone level (VBL) (mesial and distal surfaces of the implant) were measured preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively by using cone beam computed tomography and radio visio graphy. The mean difference at 2-mm and 8-mm HBW from the baseline was better in the socket shield technique, although the results were not significant. Significant results were found in Levene's test for equality of error variances. The VBL was significant at both the distal and mesial surfaces of the implant. The socket shield approach demonstrated promising clinical outcomes in preserving alveolar ridge morphology. It can be utilized as a substitute for the typical instantaneous implant placement in the aesthetic zone.