Buccal plate preservation with immediate post-extraction implant placement and provisionalization: preliminary results of a new technique.

Bone resorption and remodelling are inevitable sequelae of dental extraction and begin immediately after the extraction procedure. The buccal plate is especially predisposed to these phenomena, and if affected, may result in an increased risk of facial soft-tissue recession and other adverse clinical effects that may decrease the predictability of implant placement or impair the final aesthetic result. Buccal plate preservation is a new technique aimed at maintaining or improving the appearance of the soft and hard tissues after dental extraction procedures. The aim of this case series is to evaluate the effectiveness of this technique to maintain or improve soft tissue contours in aesthetic areas when used in conjunction with immediate implant placement. Buccal plate preservation as described may help to maintain or improve the appearance and contours of the ridge after tooth extraction, laying the groundwork for optimal functional and aesthetic replacement of the missing tooth with an implant-supported prosthesis.