“Socket Preservation After Tooth Extraction: Necessary Procedure or Potential Overtreatment? A Scoping Review”

This study was designed as a scoping review to map and analyze the available clinical evidence regarding socket preservation following tooth extraction. The primary objective was to evaluate whether the documented effectiveness of socket preservation in limiting post-extraction alveolar bone resorption translates into clinically meaningful benefits. Particular emphasis was placed on outcomes reflecting clinical relevance, including the need for additional bone augmentation at the time of implant placement and the feasibility of implant therapy. Comparative studies assessing socket preservation versus spontaneous healing were prioritized in order to better understand the extent to which observed biological advantages impact clinical decision making. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases, combining terms related to socket preservation, tooth extraction, spontaneous healing, and clinically relevant outcomes such as bone dimensional changes and implant related parameters. In line with the exploratory nature of a scoping review, a broad range of study designs was considered, with priority given to comparative clinical studies. Data extraction focused on study characteristics, clinical context, intervention details, and outcomes reflecting both biological effects and their clinical implications. The findings were synthesized to identify whether the benefits associated with socket preservation are sufficient to influence treatment strategies and justify its use in routine clinical practice.