Root Membrane Technique
Root Membrane Technique is a surgical procedure that has been gaining popularity among the implantologists for the placement of dental implants in the anterior portion (visible front portion) of the upper jaw bone. It is mostly done for people who have lost teeth due to sudden trauma and whose parts of the root of the teeth are intact.
Tooth replacement in the front region of the upper jaw bone with a single-implant is usually a successful procedure characterized by high survival rates. Although this procedure has both, a high success rate and survival rate, it is difficult to obtain a prosthetic restoration that mimics perfectly the adjacent natural tooth. This is due to the fact that after a tooth extraction, the underlying jaw bone undergoes horizontal and vertical jaw bone loss which results in the loss of buccal plate of bone. This technique helps in maintaining and preserving the periodontal ligament that nourishes the buccal plate and prevents the loss of jaw bone following a tooth extraction. The preservation of the periodontal ligament and its associated blood vessels can prevent reabsorption of the buccal bone and therefore prevent contraction of the overlying soft tissues.
Surgical Procedure in the Root Membrane Technique
The ‘Root Membrane Technique’ also known as ‘Socket Shielding’ involves separating a part of the root at the time of extraction while leaving a part of the root on the buccal side. This can effectively prevent the loss of buccal bone especially in the anterior maxilla. The root that remains ensures higher osseointegration level and also does not leave a characteristic.
Advantages of Root Membrane Technique
- Immediate implant placement can be done with this method.
- This method allows faster fusion of the implant with the jaw bone and therefore faster-healing rates.
- This technique also prevents the loss of the buccal plate after tooth extraction.
- This technique allows the outer gum membrane to remain intact.
- This method allows you to get the most natural-looking implant fixture. The technique allows the implant to be aesthetically appealing.
- It has a high success rate and strong initial stability.
- There are several studies conducted around the globe to prove the effectiveness of this treatment.
Indications and Contraindications for Root Membrane Technique
- Root Membrane Technique is employed for restoration of aesthetic regions in the upper jaw bone teeth that cannot be restored due to crown fractures or severe dental caries.
- This method is not indicated for people who have any history of periodontal diseases or people with a widening of the periodontal ligament.
- This method is also not indicated for people with any form of vertical root fractures.