Alveolar bone preservation by a hydroxyapatite/collagen composite material after tooth extraction

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Alveolar bone resorption after tooth extraction can compromise dental implant success.
• Preserving alveolar bone ridge height and width is crucial for predictable implant placement.
• Novel biomaterials are needed to enhance bone preservation and regeneration post-extraction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a hydroxyapatite/collagen (HAp/Col) composite material in preserving alveolar bone following tooth extraction.
• To assess the impact of HAp/Col on alveolar bone dimensions and bone regeneration.
• To determine the suitability of HAp/Col for use in patients requiring subsequent dental implants.

Main Methods:

• HAp/Col was applied to the alveolar ridge in 35 sites of 24 patients undergoing tooth extraction for future dental implants.
• Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to measure changes in alveolar bone height and width at baseline and 3 months post-extraction.
• Bone biopsies were analyzed to assess bone regeneration and the presence of residual HAp/Col material.

Main Results:

• Minimal reduction in alveolar bone height (buccal: 0.00±2.44 mm, lingual: 0.35±1.73 mm) and width (1.02±1.64 mm) was observed after 3 months.
• Significant elevation of the socket floor (5.71±3.45 mm) was noted at the 3-month follow-up.
• Bone biopsy analysis showed no remaining HAp/Col material, with bone tissue occupying approximately 49.79% of the specimens.

Conclusions:

• Hydroxyapatite/collagen (HAp/Col) is a reliable material for preserving alveolar bone dimensions after tooth extraction.
• The use of HAp/Col supports successful dental implant treatment by maintaining alveolar bone structure.
• HAp/Col facilitates bone regeneration, making it a valuable option in ridge preservation protocols.