A New Method for Vector Control During Alveolar Distraction Osteogenesis: A Case Report

We report a case of dentoalveolar rehabilitation employing the technique of alveolar distraction osteogenesis in a 25-year-old male patient with a right posterior mandibular defect that was a result of previous tooth extractions and consequent severe loss of alveolar bone. A new method for vector control during alveolar distraction osteogenesis was used. This method consisted of placing an orthodontic wire on an immediately loaded implant (in the right third molar position) and securing it by means of resin composite to the implant and the adjacent tooth. Implant positioning and soft tissue management were performed successfully. The described treatment strategy appears to have good potential for providing an ideal final position of the regenerated bone in cases where major tissue defects exist in the posterior mandible.