Alveolar ridge augmentation by connective tissue grafting using a pouch method and modified connective tissue...

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Regenerative Dentistry

Background:

• Localized alveolar ridge defects present physiological and pathological challenges.
• Surgical advancements enable ridge modification for improved aesthetics and hygiene.
• Alveolar ridge augmentation aims to restore bone structure and contour.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of two surgical techniques for alveolar ridge augmentation.
• Evaluate the outcomes of modified connective tissue graft versus subepithelial connective tissue graft in pouch.
• Assess the regenerative potential of different graft materials in alveolar defects.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, double-blind, parallel, prospective study involving 40 participants with maxillary anterior alveolar ridge defects.
• Group I received modified connective tissue graft; Group II received subepithelial connective tissue graft in pouch.
• Defect dimensions (horizontal and vertical) were measured using a periodontal probe on stone casts at baseline, 3, and 6 months post-surgery.

Main Results:

• The modified connective tissue graft (Group I) showed greater mean horizontal width increase (4.70 ± 0.87 mm) compared to the graft in pouch (Group II) (4.05 ± 0.89 mm) after 6 months.
• Vertical height augmentation was also significantly higher with the modified connective tissue graft (4.75 ± 0.97 mm) versus the graft in pouch (3.70 ± 0.92 mm).
• Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences between the groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• The modified connective tissue graft technique demonstrated superior outcomes in alveolar ridge augmentation compared to the subepithelial connective tissue graft in pouch.
• This technique offers a more effective approach for addressing localized alveolar ridge defects.
• Further research may explore long-term stability and patient-reported outcomes.