Clinical use of the resorbable bioscaffold poly lactic co-glycolic acid (PLGA) in post-extraction socket for maintaining the alveolar height: A prospective study.

BACKGROUND: A common sequel of tooth extraction is alveolar bone resorption. It makes the placement of dental implants difficult and creates an esthetic problem for the fabrication of conventional prostheses. Therefore, alveolar bone following tooth extraction should be preserved.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The present prospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of the resorbable bioscaffold poly lactic co-glycolic acid (PLGA) in maintaining the alveolar height in post-extraction socket.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: 20 patients were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly divided into two groups: cases and control comprising of 10 patients each. Atraumatic tooth extraction was done in all patients. PLGA bioscaffold was placed in cases and socket was closed with 3-0 vicryl. In control group, socket was directly closed with 3-0 vicryl. The patients were kept on follow-up and complications such as dry socket, pain, and swelling were recorded. IOPA were taken at 1st, 4th, 12th, and 24th week to record changes in the height of alveolar bone. The radiographic measurements were compared and the differences were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS: Reduction in alveolar bone height after placement of PLGA bioscaffold was significantly less in cases as compared to controls at 4th, 12th, and 24th week following extraction. No complications were observed throughout the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION: PLGA scaffold significantly reduces bone resorption. Application is very simple and can be easily performed in a dental setup. However, PLGA scaffold adds significantly to the cost of treatment.