Background: Over time, numerous surgical procedures and biomaterials have been proposed for the reconstruction of post-extraction bone defects, each with their advantages and disadvantages. The main objective of this study was to evaluate dimensional changes in the alveolar bone 3 months after tooth extraction, before implant planning, comparing alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) with spontaneous healing. Methods: A total of 84 patients with non-restorable molars were included in the study. Forty-two patients received ARP with advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) and spontaneous healing was evaluated in these patients. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) analysis performed before and after surgical intervention was used to determine the changes in vertical and horizontal bone dimensions produced after tooth extraction. Results: CBCT measurements showed reduction in both vertical and horizontal alveolar bone size in both groups. For the study group, the alveolar parameters (height, width) were higher compared to the control group. The percentage variations between dimensional differences from the two groups were 38.58% for height, and for width were 36.88% at 0 mm, 35.56% at 3 mm, 36.61% at 5 mm, and 38.73% at 7 mm. The differences were statistically significant (p ˂ 0.0005). Conclusions: The results obtained after ARP with A-PRF showed a reduced loss of bone volume compared to spontaneous healing.

The selection of the impression technique is an essential process that must be carried out according to the needs of each patient and the complexity of each clinical case. Impression methods have specific advantages, and their selection can directly influence the quality of the final result, the stability and long-term success of the prosthetic restoration, but also the patient's comfort. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare conventional and digital impression techniques, highlighting the advantages and limitations of each and their clinical implications. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted based on the results of an online questionnaire comprising 16 items, distributed to dentists in the Oltenia region of Romania. The collected data were statistically analyzed, and correlations among variables were established. Results: The study highlights a high acceptance rate of digital impression techniques among dentists in Oltenia, with preference among doctors from urban areas and the 36-45-year age group. Digital impression techniques are associated with superior clinical accuracy, increased patient comfort, and high levels of professional satisfaction despite their high initial costs. The results confirm that direct experience with digital technologies significantly influences doctors' willingness to adopt and recommend this method. Conclusions: Although digital impression techniques are increasingly adopted, conventional techniques remain indispensable in numerous clinical scenarios owing to their proven reliability and adaptability.