Purpose: Horizontal deficiency of the alveolar ridge complicates dental implant (DI) placement. Although ridge splitting technique (RST) is very successful, the associated marginal bone loss (MBL) is a critical drawback. The current study aimed to present and compare a novel technique, the double expansion technique (DET), with RST. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 patients (57 DI) with narrow ridges were randomly allocated to control group employing RST, and to study group employing DET. Secondary stability, marginal bone loss (MBL), keratinized mucosa width (KMW), plaque index (PI), bleeding index (BI), and probing depth (PD) were assessed at baseline (time of definitive abutment and temporary crown placement) and then at 3, 6, and 12 months. Pain and number of analgesic tablets consumed were assessed daily during the first postoperative week. Results: Study group had lower pain levels during the first two postoperative days. Study group presented greater primary and secondary stability at baseline and at 3 months. Moreover, it had less MBL at all time points and more KMW at the sixth and twelfth months. Otherwise, both groups showed comparable results regarding PI, BI, and BD. Conclusions: Study group had superior performance, which may be attributed to the lower degree of trauma.
Schlagwörter: Horizontal deficiency, Immediate implant placement, Double expansion technique, Ridge splitting technique, Marginal bone loss, Keratinized mucosal width
