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.