Alveolar ridge preservation: why, when and how.

Alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) is a method of decreasing bone resorption following tooth extraction and facilitating prosthetically-driven implant placement. An understanding of the physiological responses occurring after extraction and the effects of ARP are important in order to implement clinical procedures. ARP is a predictable way to reduce undesirable horizontal and vertical ridge reduction following extraction when dental implant treatment is to be delayed. Guided bone regeneration, socket fillers, socket sealers and growth factors have been used satisfactorily. However, there is currently no consensus on case selection, best clinical technique and material choice. Management of tooth extraction sockets is presented, with a focus on decision-making.

Counselling patients with hypodontia.

UNLABELLED: The aim of this article is to outline the implications that a diagnosis of severe hypodontia can have on a family. This should help dentists to provide effective counselling for such patients. We will discuss the dental, psycho-social, medical, functional, educational and financial implications that this diagnosis can bring. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Hypodontia is a common clinical condition encountered by general dental practitioners, so effective counselling of patients affected by this condition will help a family prepare for the implications of this diagnosis and help to improve patient satisfaction.