A successful implant procedure requires precise integration and the ideal position of the implant, along with suitable hard and soft tissue contours. This can only be ensured with sufficient alveolar bone volume, appropriate ridge architecture, and proper surgical technique. After tooth extraction, the alveolar ridge resorbs, resulting in inadequate bone volume and unsuitable ridge architecture for dental implant placement. As such, preserving the ridge is paramount for maintaining the structural integrity of the jawbone. Traditional methods are mostly ineffective in preventing bone resorption. The use of advanced ridge preservation techniques and precise ridge preservation tools tailored specifically for the purpose is crucial.  

Effective Ridge Preservation Before a Dental Implant Procedure

Ridge preservation is any procedure that reduces external resorption of the ridge and accelerates bone formation within the socket from where the tooth has been extracted. As per a report, minimal dimensional change in the tooth occurs within six to eight weeks of extraction. As such, ridge preservation techniques are sometimes based on guided tissue/ bone regeneration principles. There are various procedures implemented for better results, such as 

• Minimally Traumatic tooth Extraction

• Soft and Hard Tissue Grafting 

• Concomitant Use of Barrier Membranes

• Immediate Implant Placement

Once the tooth is extracted, the bone will resolve inexorably, so it's critical to implement the right technique for preserving bone volume, considering the situation and other factors. Filling the alveoli does not require much technicality, but protecting the filling does. The soft tissue protects it, and hence, it is crucial to manage this soft tissue. For this purpose, it is vital to ensure specific ridge preservation tools to implement the technique precisely. 

Advancements in Ridge Preservation Technology

As the demand for dental implants continues to rise, alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) procedures have seen a subsequent increase. As per studies, a naturally healed socket could lose around 50% of its buccolingual width, which could be detrimental to the implant placement. Advanced ARP procedures, however, can help maintain horizontal and vertical alveolar ridge form. The procedures using bovine and porcine xenografts and autogenous bone demineralised freeze-dried bone allografts (DFDBA), bioactive glass, hydroxyapatite, and calcium sulphate show positive results. Combining grafts with high-density polytetrafluoroethylene or collagen membranes has shown a high success rate.  

Specialised Techniques For Soft Tissue Management and Ridge Preservation 

There are specific surgical procedures and techniques that facilitate soft tissue management and ridge preservation, requiring specialised instruments. Dental instrument suppliers in the UK provide precise and advanced tools that are used in various surgical techniques, such as the following :

• Collagen Sponge Technique

• Coronally advanced Flap Technique

• Soft Tissue Punch Technique

• Saddle Connective Tissue Graft

Wrapping Up,

Reducing the trauma associated with tooth extraction and subsequent dental implants is highly difficult. However, using appropriate and advanced instruments with minimal force is advisable to limit the damage to the hard and soft tissues and accelerate the healing process. A few specialised dental instrument suppliers in the UK offer highly innovative tools that ensure precision and perfect results. It is recommended to use them for patient safety and procedure accuracy.