Weighing Reward versus Risk of Grafting Procedures: A Prosthodontic Aspect

Abstract

Resorption of the alveolar ridges after tooth extraction cannot be prevented. Therefore, alveolar ridge defects represents a challenge for dentistry. The application of grafting procedure has been introduced into dentistry mostly to enhance peri-implant bone and place the longest/widest implants possible. Today, soft and hard tissue grafting are safer and more effective than ever before. However, few practitioners are able to perform grafting procedures or regenerations in their daily practice. Even for patients who are not considering an implant to replace a tooth that needs extraction, grafting now offers us the chance to preserve the shape and strength of the bony ridge long after the tooth is gone. This is important not only for the health and strength of the teeth surrounding the extraction site, but also for the possibility of implant, repair broken bones, bridge, denture, or partial placement in the future. Traditional dentures and partials always fit better when the bony ridge is thick and strong. Even bridges placed over extraction sites can be aesthetically compromised by resorption. Simply put, alveolar ridge bone resorption after tooth extraction makes every tooth replacement option more difficult, more expensive, more time consuming, less comfortable, less aesthetic, less successful, and sometimes even impossible. These results support the placement of graft over extraction areas under favourable conditions.