"Pontic-shield" Technique in Alveolar Ridge Preservation

When a tooth is extracted, the jawbone can shrink significantly in the weeks and months that follow. The "pontic-shield" technique preserves the socket by keeping a thin slice of the tooth's root in place, which helps maintain bone and gum tissue for future dental implant placement. This study evaluates how well this technique preserves the alveolar ridge (the bone that holds teeth). You may be eligible if: - You are between 18 and 80 years old - You need to have a tooth (from second premolar to second premolar, upper or lower jaw) extracted - You have given informed consent You may NOT be eligible if: - You smoke more than 10 cigarettes a day - You have a severe systemic disease (ASA class III or IV) - You are taking drugs that interfere with bone healing - You have active gum disease (periodontitis) - You have an active or chronic infection at the root of the tooth being extracted Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.