ABSTRACT Background: Extraction of the tooth results in the loss of alveolar bone anatomy, which can compromise esthetic and functional outcomes, particularly in implant therapy. Objective: This review aims to examine the principles, methods, and clinical efficacy of alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) in limiting bone resorption after removal of the tooth from the socket. Methods: The biological basis of ridge resorption, rationale for ARP, and various techniques – including autografts, allografts, xenografts, synthetic substitutes, barrier membranes, socket sealing, and biologic adjuncts – are discussed based on current evidence. Results: Clinical studies demonstrate that ARP significantly reduces horizontal and vertical bone loss, preserves soft-tissue contour, and facilitates optimal implant placement. However, complete prevention of postextraction remodeling is not achieved. Various factors, such as age of the patient, overall body health, smoking, socket morphology, and technique variability, influence outcomes. Conclusions: ARP plays an important role in today’s dental practice, especially when treating areas where looks really matter. Irrespective of conflicts and controversies regarding various aspects such as material selection, predictability, and cost-effectiveness, ARP optimizes both hard- and soft-tissue results.
Raj et al. (2025) studied this question.