Effect of Deproteinized Bovine Bone Mineral at Implant Dehiscence Defects Grafted by the Sandwich Bone Augmentation Technique

The aim of this study was to compare the amount of radiographic horizontal buccal bone thickness (BBT) at implant dehiscence defects grafted with the sandwich bone augmentation (SBA) and modified sandwich bone augmentation (MSBA) techniques. Compared to the SBA technique, the MSBA approach involved an additional outer layer of deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) to maintain the space for bone regeneration for longer periods. A total of 19 patients, each with a buccal implant dehiscence defect, were recruited. The control group was treated with SBA technique (n = 10), while the test group was treated with MSBA technique. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, taken at three time points (before and immediately after implant surgery, and 6 months post-treatment) were used to assess the BBT at the implant platform (−1.8 mm), the rough-smooth junction (0 mm), and 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 mm apical to the rough-smooth junction. At 6 months postsurgery, the mean BBT in control and test groups was 1.69 ± 0.38 mm and 2.55 ± 0.21 mm, respectively. Mean BBT was significantly greater in the test group at 2, 4, 6, and 8 mm apical to the rough-smooth junction. There was no statistical difference in the mean BBT at the implant platform, the roughsmooth junction, and 10 mm apical to the rough-smooth junction between the two groups (P > .05). Within the limitations of this study, it was concluded that the additional layer of DBBM enhanced BBT along the implant, except at the smooth collar.