A Histologic and Clinical Evaluation of Ridge Preservation Following Grafting with Demineralized Bone Matrix, Cancellous Bone Chips, and Resorbable Extracellular Matrix Membrane

In an attempt to reduce postextraction alveolar bone resorption, ridge preservation grafting procedures with or without resorbable membranes have become standard-of-care treatments following tooth removal. This prospective case series examined histologic and clinical outcomes following socket grafting with a syringeable paste allograft and a resorbable extracellular matrix membrane at three different time periods following postextraction grafting: 6, 12, and 24 weeks. At each time period, bone core specimens were retrieved for microscopic examination, and implants were placed. Following prosthetic restoration, implants were monitored under long-term occlusal function. At all three time periods, histologic results revealed active bone regeneration. At 6 weeks, localized areas of woven bone were evident, although nonmineralized osteoid was the dominant feature. At 12 and 24 weeks, regenerated woven bone dominated the histologic landscape, with increasing amounts evident in the latter specimens. Regardless of when implants were placed following grafting, implant survival under function occurred.