Pre-implant orthodontics: achieving vertical bone height without osseous grafts

Traditionally, orthodontic treatment has be involved with implant dentistry to correct malocclusion prior to surgical procedures. Most recently, orthodontics has become an invaluable adjunct to implant dentistry for treatment plans involving tooth replacement for sites diagnosed with localized advanced periodontitis. Loss of vertical bone height as a result of periodontal disease is difficult to overcome with hard tissue grafting. However, in cases where the failing or failed tooth is still present, an alternative method involving pre-implant orthodontics is being utilized to generate vertical bone height. Specifically, orthodontic intrusive and extrusive forces are exerted on the hopeles tooth or teeth to facilitate bone in the future implant site. The author presents a case demonstrating this technique.