RESUMO
This experimental study was made to evaluate the osteogenic potential of Bioglass/Dextran composite clinically, radiographically and histologically in induced mandibular bone defects in 12 mongrel dogs and suitability of this material to the ridge augmentation procedures. In the right mandibular side, first molar was removed followed by localized alveolectomy then the site was compressed with the composite graft while in the left side, a rectangular defect was surgically induced with dimensions 20 x l0x 5 mm just below the inferior alveolar canal then compressed with the graft material. Both grafted defects were compared with the control animals along intervals 3, 6 and 12 weeks postoperative periods clinically, radiographically, histologically and histomorphometrically. the current study proved that this composite is bioactive, has high osteogenic potential and could be used effectively in large osseous defects without any adverse inflammatory, allergic or cytotoxic reactions. In addition, this composite could be used in alveolar ridge augmentation procedures as it caused a statistically significant increase in rate and density of bone formation in these defects compared to the control animals. Bioglass/Dextran composite is an effective osteoconductive and osteostimulatory graft material that could be used in large osseous defects and in ridge augmentation procedures especially with the use of barrier membrane