Two-stage combined vestibuloplasty and partial mandibular ridge augmentation with hydroxyapatite

The preliminary results of a new two-stage technique for partial augmentation of the edentulous mandibular ridge with hydroxyapatite are reported. The technique, which has been applied to five patients, can be performed under local analgesia, and involves initial placement of temporary silicone spacers, together with submucous vestibuloplasty to preserve sulcus depth. The spacers are later replaced by dense particulate hydroxyapatite, and the connective tissue capsules that remain after removal of the spacers allow control of particle migration and minimize the amount of hydroxyapatite required.