Localized vertical maxillary ridge preservation using bone cores and a rotated palatal flap

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Periodontology
• Dental Implantology

Background:

• Vertical alveolar ridge augmentation is essential for successful dental implant placement and esthetic outcomes.
• Resorbed alveolar ridges present a significant challenge in reconstructive dentistry.
• Achieving favorable implant positioning and superior esthetics requires adequate bone volume.

Observation:

• A novel surgical technique for anterior maxillary ridge preservation is presented.
• The technique involves harvesting autogenous bone cores from the buccal vestibular region.
• A soft tissue rotated palatal flap is utilized to cover the augmented site.

Findings:

• Maxillary lateral incisor extraction and periapical surgery were performed prior to augmentation.
• Autogenous bone cores were placed into the extraction sockets of the lateral incisors.
• Dental implants were successfully placed after 3 months, with prosthetic restorations cemented 12 weeks later.
• No complications were reported during a 2-year follow-up period.

Implications:

• This technique offers a viable method for preserving the anterior alveolar ridge.
• It facilitates the posterior placement of dental implants in augmented sites.
• The described approach enhances both functional and esthetic results in dental reconstructions.