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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
A Postoperative Evaluation Guideline for Computer-Assisted Reconstruction of the Mandible
Published on: January 28, 2020
Guided bone regeneration of a pronounced gingivo-alveolar cleft due to orthodontic space closure
Maria Letícia B Pinheiro1, Teresa Cristina Moreira, Eduardo J Feres-Filho
1Graduate Periodontics, School of Dentistry at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Background:
Gingival invagination is a relatively common occurrence following orthodontic closure of extraction sites. The present paper reports a combined periodontal and orthodontic treatment in a patient with a severe gingivo-alveolar cleft due to orthodontic closure of maxillary central incisor extraction space.
Methods:
A definite interdental gingival cleft, extending 8 mm into the alveolar bone, required the correction of the gingival deformity as a first step, followed by guided bone regeneration (GBR). The GBR approach included the emptying of the incisive foramen to approximately 5 mm in depth followed by the insertion of bioabsorbable hydroxyapatite and covering with a bioabsorbable barrier membrane. Six months afterward, the orthodontic therapy was resumed.
Results:
Radiographs and clinical examination 4 years after the completion of therapy indicates functionally and aesthetically satisfactory and stable results.
Conclusion:
The present paper illustrates an additional application for the guided bone regeneration technique.
