A Comparative Study of the Flap and Flapless Techniques of Ridge Preservation: A Clinical Double-Blinded Study

INTRODUCTION: Extraction of the tooth often leads to crestal bone loss. It is difficult for clinicians to decide on the technique of extraction. Many studies on flap and flapless have led to confusion. Hence it becomes necessary to conduct this study to show the efficient ridge preservation technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty patients were selected for this study. It was divided into the flap and flapless groups. In group A, the flap was elevated, tooth extraction was undertaken, the socket was cleaned, a graft was placed, a barrier was placed, and a suture was placed. In group B all the procedures were the same but without flap elevation. After surgery, clinical and radiographical parameters were recorded. RESULT: Flapless technique showed a better result in bone preservation. There was a low vertical bone loss in the flapless technique. CONCLUSION: Both techniques showed bone loss. But the flapless technique gave better results.