Horizontal Ridge Augmentation With Symphyseal Autograft: Clinical and Radiographic Analysis

Horizontal ridge augmentation with symphyseal autograft is a reliable method of treating alveolar ridge deficiencies in the anterior mandible. Autogenous bone grafts from intraoral donor sites have been regarded as the gold standard for reconstructing jaws. The symphysis is an easily available source of corticocancellous bone with good osteogenic, osteoinductive, and osteoconductive characteristics. This case report illustrates the horizontal ridge augmentation with symphyseal block grafts successfully before implant placement. Fixation screws were used to fix harvested blocks to the ridged defect, along with particulate bone grafts and barrier membranes to provide stability and prevent resorption. This technique provided outstanding horizontal bone gain with a good foundation for placing the implant in otherwise compromised locations. Case selection, accurate surgical technique, and respect for biologic principles are paramount to achieving the best results. On balance, symphyseal autografts are still a solid choice for horizontal ridge augmentation in implant dentistry.