Objective:
The aim of the present study was to evaluate horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation using autogenous block grafts harvested from mandibular symphysis without barrier membrane in severe maxillary anterior ridge defects.
Materials and methods:
Six healthy patients with horizontal defects of the maxillary alveolar ridges were selected for alveolar ridge augmentation (class IV atrophy according to Benic and Hammerle classification). These defects were treated by autogenous block onlay grafts harvested from mandibular symphysis protected by anorganic bovine bone particles only. bone width was assessed preoperative, immediately post-operative and after 6 months at re‐entry by cone beam computed tomography.
Result:
All block grafts sites provided sufficient ridge width for proper implant placement. Mean bone gain was 3.9mm. No soft tissue dehiscence occurred in any of the cases.
Conclusion:
A combination of autogenous block graft obtained from the symphysis, combined with particulates xenograft alone without barrier membrane is a predictable and successful technique for augmenting maxillary horizontal ridge deficiency.