Grafting mandibular third molar extraction sites: a comparison of bioactive glass to a nongrafted site

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of bioactive glass used as a graft material for regeneration of bone after the removal of impacted third molars. The healing distal to the second molars was followed, with documentation of the level of radiographic osseous fill and measurement of the changes in clinical attachment levels.

Fourteen (5 male and 9 female) patients completed the study at 1 year. After surgical removal of bilateral impacted third molars, one site was grafted with bioactive glass particles (BioGran, Orthovita, Malvern, Penn). The patients were followed up at 1 and 2 weeks after surgery for signs or symptoms of infection or any other complications that may have been related to the surgical procedures. At 3, 6, and 12 months, the clinical attachment levels distal to the second molars were assessed. At 6 and 12 months, radiographs were obtained to assess the amount of osseous fill distal to the second molars.

A split-mouth design was used to test the efficacy of the grafting materials. Clinical attachment levels in the grafted sites were significantly higher than in the nongrafted sites. There was not a significant increase in bone formation when comparing the 2 sides at 1 year.

This study suggests that treatment of third molar extraction sites with bioactive glass does significantly alter the clinical attachment level but not the level of osseous fill distal to the second molars after 1 year.