In this insightful episode of Just Ask, Professor Gustavo Avila-Ortiz, a leading figure in periodontal science, delves deep into the complexities of ridge preservation procedures after tooth extractions. The conversation, hosted by Stefan, kicks off with an engaging introduction of Gustavo’s impressive career, spanning universities in Spain, the US, and affiliations with prestigious institutions like Harvard.
The primary question for Gustavo: What is your favourite ridge preservation procedure? As he explains, ridge preservation is a crucial aspect of dental surgery aimed at minimizing the inevitable bone loss following tooth extractions. He shares his expert views on how different strategies, such as socket grafting and socket sealing, can significantly reduce the volumetric loss of bone and improve the outcomes for future implant placements.
Gustavo discusses the importance of factors like bone thickness and the preservation of the facial bone during the extraction process. He highlights the importance of minimally traumatic extractions, which he says is essential for achieving better results in ridge preservation. Using a mix of scientific research and clinical experience, he shows how ridge preservation not only aids in bone volume retention but also helps reduce the need for additional bone grafting procedures in future implant placements.
In the discussion, Gustavo answers pressing questions about the biological processes behind bone resorption and the role of various materials, such as allografts and autografts, in preservation procedures. He also touches on the costs and effectiveness of different treatments, emphasizing that while the benefits of ridge preservation are clear, the choice of materials and techniques depends on the specific clinical scenario.
This episode is a must-watch for those in the dental field, as Gustavo provides a comprehensive overview of current practices, challenges, and considerations when managing extraction sites. His wealth of knowledge makes it clear that while there is no one-size-fits-all approach, ridge preservation is a valuable tool in maintaining bone structure and improving implant success rates.