Abstract
BACKGROUND: Ridge resorption following tooth extraction can be managed with bone graft substitutes. The present study histologically evaluated the amount of new bone formation 3 and 4 months after tooth extraction and ridge preservation using the hydroxyapatite/β-tricalcium phosphate (HA/βTCP) graft material (OSTEON II). METHODS: Forty patients requiring tooth extraction and subsequent implant placement were enrolled in this randomized controlled clinical trial. Ridge preservation using HA/βTCP alloplast (OSTEON II) in extraction sockets was divided into three months (group A) and four months (group B). Bone samples were collected from each grafted socket at the implant placement site. Histomorphometric analyses were performed to determine the amount of new bone formation and the residual graft material. In addition, we evaluated changes in histological indices, i.e., inflammation rate, percentage of ossification, and the amount of remaining biomaterial. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the amount of newly formed bone and the residual graft material between the two groups. In the 3-month group, an average of 20.11% of newly formed bone and 6.82% of the remaining graft were seen. In contrast, they were 20.67% and 7.38% in the 4-month group. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that the HA/βCP bone graft material (OSTEON II) may enhance bone regeneration within a shorter healing time.