Extraction Socket Seal Technique for Socket Preservation after Tooth Extraction: An Innovative Approach.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Tooth extraction triggers the loss of surrounding alveolar soft tissue and bone. Numerous socket preservation techniques have been used by clinical surgeons; the issue with all existing techniques is the loss of soft tissue anatomy, resulting in a flat soft tissue architecture. Our study introduces an innovative ridge preservation technique that addresses this problem; it involved using an anatomically shaped composite resin lid that acts as a graft sealant and an approach for maintaining the soft tissue cervical profile. Material and Methods: The Extraction Socket Seal (ESS) technique was applied for 23 patients for socket preservation; atraumatic extraction of hopeless tooth was performed. The extraction socket was filled up with bone grafting material. After that, the composite resin lid, which was fabricated by the Cervico system was placed into the extraction socket. Finally, the lid was connected to the adjacent teeth with an adhesive system and composite resin material. The patients were evaluated for a three-month interval for any complications and success of Extraction Socket Seal (ESS) technique. The data were tested by descriptive data analysis using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, version 29). Results: The proposed technique has been successfully performed in twenty-three cases; 13 cases were male and 10 cases were female; and the mean age of all cases was 32 years. Extraction Socket Seal (ESS) technique utilizing a composite resin lid fabricated from the Cervico system was used as socket sealant placed directly to cover the bone graft, and we found that it provided an excellent “barrier” for the graft without any unwanted complications. After three months, radiographs showed good bone healing, and the mean socket soft tissue healing score was 4 (Very good wound healing), and most importantly the soft tissue architecture and shape were well preserved. Conclusions: We concluded that the Extraction Socket Seal (ESS) technique offers a very simple and time-saving technique for alveolar ridge preservation after tooth extraction for both anterior and posterior extraction sockets, and it provides a good seal for the graft material and the soft tissue anatomy was well preserved. Keywords: Alveolar ridge preservation, Extraction Socket Seal, ESS, Delayed implant placement, Socket preservation, Tooth extraction.