The fundamental basics of the Socket Shield Technique

The Socket Shield Technique (SST) is an innovative implantology method that aims to preserve the vestibular root wall during extraction in order to maintain bone and gingival architecture particularly in areas with high aesthetic requirements. It consists of preserving an intact vestibular root fragment (the shield) while inserting an implant immediately in the palatal position without direct contact with the shield. This technique helps to prevent vestibular bone resorption and to achieve better aesthetic results particularly in terms of soft tissue. Advantages include conservation of alveolar volume stability of gingival contour and reduced need for bone grafts. However the disadvantages of SST include its technical complexity the risk of infection or shield mobility and the need for specific training. It is indicated for patients requiring unitary extraction in the anterior region with intact vestibular wall in the absence of active infectious lesion. Limitations include fractured roots severe infections etc.