Implant-supported prosthesis placed in the distraction-augmented alveolar bones: review of 2 cases

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This is to report the effectiveness of intraoral distraction osteogenesis for alveolar augmentation in the extremely atrophied alveolar defects and to review the clinical results of the 2 cases.SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Anterior segmental osteotomy was performed and the trans-oral alveolar distractors( Martin, Germany) were applied in 2 patients with the severe acquired anterior maxillary and mandibular defect. After latent period for 1 week, the osteomized alveolar segments were distracted by 1 mm a day (0.5 mm/1 turn) for 8 days in case I and 0.6 mm a day(0.3 mm/1 turn) for 10 days in case II. The consolidation period was about 8 weeks in each case. Thereafter, 6 titanium threaded implants (Branemark, Restore) were simultaneously installed with removal of distractor. The implants were tested clinically and radiographically.RESULTS: Amounts of acquired alveolar bone were 8 mm in case I and 6 mm in case II respectively, with the increased width of the ridge crests and soft tissue expansion. Dental implants installated on the augmented alveolar ridges in 8 weeks after distraction were confirmed as in good osseointegration and in good function without any complications.CONCLUSION: Intraoral distraction osteogenesis can be a good option for alveolar ridge augmentation of the severely atrophied ridges and soft-tissue defects. However, for the better vector control of distracting segments and for anterior esthetics, customized distraction devices could be considered later.