Evaluation of a Poly(Lactic-Co-Glycolic) Acid-Coated β-Tricalcium Phosphate Bone Substitute for Alveolar Ridge...

β-Tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) is a synthetic osteoconductive scaffold that is used as an alternative to autogenous bone grafts. The purpose of this case series was to examine the effectiveness of a polymer-coated β-TCP particulate graft in preserving alveolar ridge height after tooth extraction. Effectiveness was evaluated using radiographic measurements, together with a histomorphometric evaluation of bone formation.

Eight patients, treatment planned for extraction and dental implant placement in the posterior region, were consecutively enrolled in the case series. Study teeth were extracted, and an alloplastic bone substitute, consisting of synthetic β-TCP granules coated with a biodegradable polymer (i.e., poly[lactic-co-glycolic] acid [PLGA]), was placed and adapted into the extraction socket. Patients were recalled at 1, 2, and 4 weeks and 3 months postoperatively to evaluate wound healing and at 4 to 5 months for implant placement. Bone specimens were collected at osteotomy preparation. Healing was uneventful at each graft site. Five sites were available for surgical reentry and implant placement; the sites exhibited ≤10% reduction in radiographic bone height. Histologic evidence of vital bone growth was evident at each grafted site.

The PLGA-coated β-TCP bone substitute exhibited good stability and retention after socket grafting. Extraction sites healed with clinical and radiographic evidence of ridge preservation.