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Preserving Smiles: Exploring Alveolar Ridge Preservation for Optimal Tooth Replacement

Dental professionals converged for an illuminating talk on alveolar ridge preservation by periodontics residents, Dr Lin Zhiyi and Dr Clara Goh.

On the evening of 22 August 2023, dental professionals gathered at the NUS Faculty of Dentistry for an enlightening lecture on a crucial topic in modern dentistry. Organised by ITI (International Team for Implantology) Study Club and the Postgraduate Periodontics Programme, the event titled, "B-Ridge the Gap: Alveolar Ridge Preservation in Daily Practice,” was also supported by the NUCOHS Periodontics Department. The talk sought to delve into the intricacies of maintaining hard and soft tissue dimensions following tooth extraction. The speakers, Dr Lin Zhiyi and Dr Clara Goh, both periodontics residents at NUS Dentistry, guided participants through the intricate web of tooth extraction, preservation methods and treatment optimisation.

Dr Lin Zhiyi (left) and Dr Clara Goh (right) sharing their insights on alveolar ridge preservation.

The crux of the lecture revolved around the challenges that clinicians face when planning tooth replacement after extraction. Dental professionals are acutely aware that tooth extraction can lead to substantial dimensional changes in the surrounding hard and soft tissues. The loss of bone and gum tissues can complicate the subsequent placement of dental implants or other tooth replacements, often necessitating the need for additional procedures and compromising the outcome. The central question explored during the talk was whether it is necessary to preserve the alveolar ridge.

During the two-hour session, Dr Lin and Dr Goh comprehensively shared the rationale and clinical indications for alveolar ridge preservation. Through insightful case studies and evidence-based presentations, attendees deeply understood the importance of preserving the alveolar ridge's dimensions to achieve long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing and functional tooth replacements.

The talk also explored the array of techniques available for alveolar ridge preservation. The speakers delved into techniques ranging from socket grafting to guided bone regeneration, offering attendees valuable insights into the benefits and potential challenges of each method. By sharing real-world examples, Dr Lin and Dr Goh provided attendees with the tools to make informed decisions in their clinical practice.

Attendees listening intently to the speakers.

Participants left the talk armed with a comprehensive overview of the techniques and considerations involved in alveolar ridge preservation procedures.

“From today's session, I learned more about the current evidence, indications and techniques available for alveolar ridge preservation. Although this topic is not new to me, the session provided me with valuable insights on the recommendations and routine practices conducted by our local periodontists in-training,” shared Dr Keane Ng, Associate Dental Surgeon at Tooth Angels Dental Centre.

“I gained a lot of new insights on alveolar ridge preservation today – from specific indications and contraindications to complications and postoperative care. These are valuable techniques I will definitely employ in my practice!” said Dr Claire Ho, Dental Surgeon at Royce Dental Centre. 

Participants and speakers at the end of the talk.