Socket Shield Technique for Immediate and Delayed Implant Placement: A 6-Year Clinical Tria

Participants underwent extraction and socket shield preparation, followed by immediate implant placement in the esthetic maxillary zone. The implant was inserted at the same surgical session using a flapless or minimally invasive approach. CBCT was used to guide planning and assess ridge dimensions. Healing and follow-up assessments were conducted at 1 year and 6 years post-placement.

Participants underwent extraction and socket shield preparation. Implant placement was delayed for 6 months to allow soft and hard tissue healing. The implant was placed after verifying shield stability and ridge preservation via CBCT. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 1 year and 6 years post-placement.