Our Summary

This study is about an alternative method in dental implant treatment called the socket shield technique. The researchers looked at 20 studies between 2000 and 2018 that used this technique on 288 patients. They found that in most cases, this technique was successful and resulted in a good cosmetic appearance. However, in about 9.5% of cases, complications occurred, including issues with the implant integrating with the bone, movement of the socket shield, and infection. They concluded that while this technique can be used in dental implant treatment, it is hard to predict its long-term success without more high-quality evidence.

FAQs

  1. What is the socket shield technique in dental implant treatment?
  2. What types of complications can occur with the socket shield technique?
  3. What was the overall success rate of the socket shield technique according to the studies reviewed?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about dental implant surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include avoiding certain foods, maintaining good oral hygiene, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. It is also important to inform the doctor of any changes or concerns during the healing process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for dental implant surgery include:

  1. Patients who have lost a single tooth or multiple teeth due to injury, decay, or periodontal disease.
  2. Patients who have sufficient bone density in their jaw to support the implant.
  3. Patients who have good oral health and hygiene habits to maintain the implant long-term.
  4. Patients who are in good overall health and do not have any medical conditions that may affect the success of the implant surgery.
  5. Patients who are non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before and after the surgery, as smoking can negatively impact the success of dental implants.
  6. Patients who have realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery and are committed to following post-operative care instructions provided by their dentist.

Timeline

Before dental implant surgery:

  1. Consultation: The patient meets with their dentist to discuss their options for replacing a missing tooth or teeth, including dental implants.
  2. Treatment planning: The dentist creates a personalized treatment plan for the patient, including any necessary preparatory procedures such as tooth extraction or bone grafting.
  3. Pre-operative appointments: The patient may undergo imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, to assess their bone structure and determine the optimal placement for the dental implant.
  4. Preparing for surgery: The patient may be instructed to fast before the surgery and to arrange for transportation to and from the dental office.

After dental implant surgery:

  1. Recovery: The patient may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the days following the surgery. Pain medications and cold packs can help manage these symptoms.
  2. Healing: It can take several months for the dental implant to fully integrate with the jawbone. During this time, the patient will need to follow a soft diet and practice good oral hygiene to promote healing.
  3. Placement of the final restoration: Once the implant has fully healed, the patient will return to the dentist to have the final restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) attached to the implant.
  4. Follow-up appointments: The patient will need to attend regular check-ups with their dentist to ensure the implant is functioning properly and to monitor their oral health.

Overall, the dental implant process can take several months from the initial consultation to the placement of the final restoration. It is important for patients to follow their dentist’s instructions carefully to ensure the success of their dental implant treatment.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the socket shield technique and how does it differ from traditional dental implant surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the socket shield technique?
  3. How successful has this technique been in previous cases similar to mine?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for this procedure?
  5. Are there any specific factors about my oral health or medical history that may affect the success of this technique?
  6. How long can I expect the dental implant to last if the socket shield technique is used?
  7. What are the alternatives to the socket shield technique for dental implant treatment?
  8. Will I need any additional procedures or treatments before or after the socket shield technique is performed?
  9. How much will the procedure cost and will it be covered by my insurance?
  10. Can you provide me with any references or testimonials from other patients who have undergone the socket shield technique for dental implants?

Reference

Authors: Ogawa T, Sitalaksmi RM, Miyashita M, Maekawa K, Ryu M, Kimura-Ono A, Suganuma T, Kikutani T, Fujisawa M, Tamaki K, Kuboki T. Journal: J Prosthodont Res. 2022 Jan 11;66(1):12-18. doi: 10.2186/jpr.JPR_D_20_00054. Epub 2021 Mar 9. PMID: 33692284