Background: Clinicians are often faced with changes in socket anatomy after tooth extraction. Extraction socket management can be challenging, particularly in the aesthetic zone. Before an implant-based treatment can be proposed, a detailed diagnosis of the defect type must be made and a treatment plan developed accordingly to ensure the long-term stability of peri-implant tissues.
Materials and methods: The present authors developed a new extraction socket classification and associated recommendations for planning and execution of immediate dentoalveolar restoration.
Results: The classification is based on six criteria: the bony anatomy of the 360-degree socket, socket health, facial gingival recession, periodontal biotype, bone density and apical height of the remaining bone. These criteria guide immediate dentoalveolar restoration planning so an optimal peri-implant tissue structure and aesthetic outcome can be achieved, and enabled long-term resolution in a complex clinical case.
Conclusions: When planning post-extraction treatment that is effective and predictable in the long term, 360-degree anatomical classification of the extraction socket must be performed to ensure that the treatment is proportional to the socket and surrounding soft tissue damage.