Postextraction ridge maintenance using the endosseous ridge maintenance implant (ERMI)

Classically, alveolar bone height in the maxilla and mandible is naturally lost by resorption soon after exodontia; or subsequently by pressure that is exerted on the edentulous ridge by the removable denture. As the alveolar bone is resorbed, the only alternative given to the dental practitioner in the past was to constantly reline the removable prosthesis. With the ERMI, the postextraction edentulous ridge can be sustained; thus reducing the physiological and retentive complications encountered by the patient over time. The intent of this article is to review the physiology of the ERMI in bone, describe in detail the basic placement procedure, as well as discuss the indications and contraindications to the use of the Endosseous Ridge Maintenance Implant System.