Evaluation of Extraction Site Dimensions and Density Using Computed Tomography Treated With Different Graft Materials: A Preliminary Study.

PURPOSE: The preliminary human study was designed to evaluate extraction site changes using CT after socket preservation (SP) with different materials.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-two sockets from 17 Turkish individuals (8 women and 9 men; mean age 44.70 ± 9.99 years) localized at the maxillary anterior area were treated with demineralized bone matrix + collagen membrane (CM) (N = 14), hydroxyapatite bone substitute (HBS) + CM (N = 14), CM (N = 13), or left empty (N = 11). CT scans were taken 10 and 120 days after the procedure. Horizontal and vertical socket dimensions and Hounsfield unit (HU) values were evaluated.

RESULTS: First 3 groups showed a significant horizontal decrease from day 10 to 120. No significant change was detected in vertical socket dimension. For both horizontal and vertical, no intergroup difference was detected at days 10 and 120. At days 10 and 120, HU values in HBS + CM group were significantly higher compared with others. Apical and coronal HU values were not different at any period.

CONCLUSION: Even if it did not provide better socket dimensions, HBS + CM treatment brought higher tissue density and thus, can be recommended to increase the bone quality and implant success after SP in upper anterior area.