Soft Tissue Stability in Immediate Implant Placement Using the Vestibular Socket Therapy Versus Conventional Flap in Type II Extraction Sockets in the Esthetic Zone: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Several methods have been suggested for the treatment of class 2 socket types with immediate implant placement. One such technique is the immediate dento-alveolar restoration (IDR), which involves the incorporation of a tuberosity bone graft into the buccal defect, restoring the missing buccal bone walls. However, this technique has some limitations, including the lack of graft stabilization to the host bed, the high rate of bone graft remodeling, and the limited availability of tuberosity bone when wisdom teeth are present.

In contrast, Buser D. extensively researched the early implant placement method. This approach involves extracting the tooth and then waiting for a delay period of 8-12 weeks. According to the authors, this timeframe allows for the development of ample keratinized tissues, the elimination of socket infection, and the occurrence of post-extraction bone remodeling.

In contrast, both early placement and contour augmentation procedures have demonstrated certain drawbacks. These include the collapse of socket walls in both horizontal and vertical directions after tooth extraction, the need for a lengthy treatment duration that can extend up to 8 months, the challenges of maintaining provisional restorations during this extended period, and the potential for post-restorative socket tissue recession due to the reflection of the mucoperiosteal flap . As a result, achieving a successful esthetic treatment outcome becomes difficult to predict.

The technique of vestibular socket therapy (VST), introduced by Elaskry et al. , enables the placement of implants immediately while simultaneously rehabilitating the entire socket, resulting in excellent esthetic and functional outcomes that meet the expectations of patients. VST involves socket augmentation through a minimally invasive vestibular access incision, eliminating the need for the traditional mucoperiosteal flap reflection, regardless of the extent of socket compromise .

The procedure involves making a horizontal incision in the vestibule at the base of the mucogingival junction of the extracted tooth. This is followed by implant placement without the need for a flap, grafting the compromised socket walls through the vestibular access incision. The labial bone defect, which has been grafted with a bone graft, is then protected using a cortical equine membrane, and finally, the socket opening is sealed with a customized healing collar.