Hard‐tissue alterations following immediate implant placement in extraction sites

The marginal gap that may occur following implant installation in an extraction socket may be resolved by hard-tissue fill during healing.

To study dimensional alterations of hard tissues that occur following tooth extraction and immediate placement of implants. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eighteen subjects with a total of 21 teeth scheduled for extraction were included. Following flap elevation and the removal of a tooth and implant installation, clinical measurements were made to characterize the dimension of the surrounding bone walls, as well as the marginal defect. No membranes or filler material was used. The flaps were subsequently replaced and secured with sutures in such a way that the healing cap of the implant was exposed to the oral environment. After 4 months of healing a re-entry procedure was performed and the clinical measurements were repeated.