Customized CAD/CAM coral hydroxyapatite block for horizontal ridge augmentation in severe bone defects: A case report

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Dentistry

Background:

• Limited data exist on customized coral hydroxyapatite (CHA) blocks for horizontal ridge augmentation.
• Severe mandibular bone defects pose challenges for dental implant placement.

Observation:

• A 21-year-old male with a 2-3 mm horizontal bone width underwent augmentation using a custom CHA block.
• The CHA block was designed via cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and computer-aided techniques.
• Post-augmentation, soft tissues healed well without complications.

Findings:

• CBCT after 10 months showed bone width increased to 4-8 mm, allowing implant insertion.
• Implant stability quotient reached 70 after 7 months, enabling definitive restoration.
• The CHA block simplified surgery, reduced procedure time, and minimized adverse reactions.

Implications:

• Customized CHA blocks show potential as an alternative to autogenous bone grafts for horizontal ridge augmentation.
• Further research is needed to enhance the osteoinductive and osteogenic properties of CHA blocks.
• This technique may improve predictability and outcomes in complex implant cases.