Which term refers to the resorption pattern observed in the buccal and lingual aspects of the ridge?

The term "ridge resorption" refers specifically to the resorption pattern that occurs in the alveolar ridge following tooth loss, particularly affecting the buccal and lingual surfaces. This process is essential in understanding how the ridge changes over time, as it involves the loss of bone mass and density which can significantly impact future dental procedures such as implants.

In the context of dental practice, recognizing the patterns of ridge resorption is crucial for effective treatment planning. After a tooth is extracted, the surrounding bone starts to undergo changes that can lead to a reduction in both width and height of the ridge, making it more complicated to place implants later on. Thus, knowing about ridge resorption helps practitioners anticipate and manage these changes.

The other terms, while related to bone and ridge changes, do not specifically define the resorption pattern of the buccal and lingual aspects in the same way. Bone remodeling is a more generalized term referring to the ongoing process of bone turnover involving the resorption and formation of bone. Crestal bone loss specifically pertains to the loss of bone height at the crest of the ridge and is often associated with periodontal disease rather than the overall resorption pattern. Socket preservation refers to techniques aimed at minimizing the resorption that occurs after extraction