Tooth extraction is followed by tissue atrophy and soft/hard tissue loss, often complicating implant placement. Ridge preservation techniques have been developed to reduce volume loss after tooth extraction. Multiple techniques and materials have been advocated, however, today it is not clear from a scientific and clinical perspective which procedure is superior to another. In particular the defect configuration seems to have an influence on the regenerative capacity of the extraction site. As a consequence, dehiscent socket have to be treated different to intact sockets. Also the value of the regeneration of the overlying soft tissue has gained clinical and scientific interest. This lecture gives scientific and clinical overview of recent socket preservation techniques and highlights clinical shortfalls.

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