Submergence of Vital Roots for the Preservation of Residual Ridge: A Clinical Study

Purpose: To test the value of submerging vital roots for the preservation of the residual ridge. Materials and Methods: The study sample consisted of 10 patients whose bone height on both submerged and control sites was measured with the help of OPG tracings and the use of grids, from the immediate post-operative period to 3 months, 6 months and 9 months post-operatively. Statistical analysis was performed using the t-test and one-way ANOVA. Results: The amount of bone loss was significantly greater in the control area in comparison to the submerged area from the immediate post-operative period to 3 months, 6 months and 9 months post-operatively. Conclusion: Although the retained roots do not prevent the resorption of residual ridge, they aid in decreasing the resorptive pattern, thereby preserving the residual ridge to some extent. This may be an expedient and inexpensive way to preserve residual ridge, requiring minimal specialised training. Keywords: prosthetic factors, residual ridge, surgical technique, vital roots