Novel early vertical ridge augmentation technique

Jerry Chin Yi Lin, Shaima O. Bahammam, David M. Kim, Wei Jen Chang

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background/purpose: Multiple augmentation protocols are documented in the literature to rebuild the deficient alveolar ridge after tooth extraction; however, achieving adequate vertical augmentation remains the most challenging goal. This study demonstrated a novel surgical technique of early vertical ridge augmentation for post-dental extraction. This technique offers several biological and technical advantages regarding the timing of the procedure and its relative simplicity compared to other complex techniques. Materials and methods: This retrospective study consisted of 50 extraction sites from 44 participants who had received early vertical ridge augmentation (VRA) procedures (6–16 weeks post-extraction in either the maxilla or the mandible). The procedures were carried out using titanium tenting screws, freeze-dried bone allografts (FDBA), and xenografts (bovine). Pre- and post-operative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were taken for all participants 6–9 months after the augmentation surgery to measure the vertical bone gained. Results: A total of 44 patients were treated with early VRA 6–16 weeks post-dental extraction. The total mean vertical bone gain measured after 6–9 months of augmentation for all cases was 4.64 ± 1.76 mm with no complications encountered. About 80 % of augmented sites met or exceeded the expected vertical bone gain (EVBG). Delaying vertical ridge augmentation until after eight weeks post-extraction, particularly beyond twelve weeks, results in higher rates of EVBG and more consistent average bone gain. Conclusion: This study indicates that VRA can be achieved predictably by utilizing the early VRA technique, which is relatively straightforward and is associated with a minimal complication.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)20-27
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Dental Sciences
Volume20
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 2024

Keywords

  • Allografts
  • Early bone augmentation
  • Post-extraction site management
  • Tenting screws
  • Vertical ridge augmentation
  • Xenografts

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Dentistry

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