Dr. Stephen Chen, Australia, presented the advantages of Ridge Preservation. Resorption of the alveolar process is an inevitable consequence of tooth extraction. But Ridge Preservation procedures are effective at limiting the dimensional change post-extraction. According to Dr. Chen, to ensure successful Ridge Preservation the bone replacement material must be:
- incorporated quickly into the surrounding bone – if not, soft tissue grows into the alveolus after the collagen membrane has degraded
- resorbed slowly – so volume can be maintained in the long term.
Prof. Daniel Buser, Switzerland, focused on the compensation of bone loss with a contour augmentation instead of prevention. He reasoned that bone defects produced by a tooth extraction can be predictably and reliably regenerated. In this case early implant placement – four to eight weeks after tooth extraction – is crucial. He presented his long-term data to demonstrate the success of his approach. For Prof. Buser, the perfect trio for contour augmentation is:
- autologous bone chips – promotes new bone formation
- Geistlich Bio-Oss® bone substitute – maintains volume in the long term
- Geistlich Bio-Gide® collagen membrane – protects the augmentation and ensures wound healing.
Two experts, two approaches – different paths to success with Geistlich Biomaterials!