Extraction Defect Assessment, Classification, and Management

Tooth extraction is a traumatic procedure initiating a complex cascade of biochemical and histologic events that inevitably lead to a reduction of alveolar bone and soft tissue. These tissue alterations often lead to an esthetic compromise of the future implant restoration. The hard- and soft-tissue architecture surrounding the extraction defect largely dictates the course of dental implant treatment. The EDS or extraction-defect sounding classification is a novel system introduced to simplify the decision-making process when planning for dental implant therapy following tooth extraction. Dental implant treatment guidelines based on the EDS classification are discussed. A review of pretreatment evaluations necessary to prepare for esthetic implant procedures is also presented.