Alveolar Ridge Preservation Versus Spontaneous Healing

Launched by ERASMUS MEDICAL CENTER · May 23, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying two methods for treating large bone defects in the jaw after a tooth extraction. Specifically, it compares "alveolar ridge preservation" (ARP), where a special material is used to help maintain the bone structure, against allowing the area to heal on its own, which is called "spontaneous healing." The goal is to see if using these materials can reduce the need for additional bone procedures when placing dental implants in the back of the jaw.

To be eligible for this study, participants must be at least 18 years old and need to have a single tooth (either a premolar or molar) extracted from the lower jaw, with significant bone loss in the area. Those with certain health issues, like uncontrolled diabetes or active gum disease, cannot participate. If enrolled, participants will undergo a tooth extraction and then be randomly assigned to one of three groups: one using a xenograft, one using an allograft, or the control group that will heal on its own. After several months, doctors will check to see if the bone has healed enough for a dental implant to be placed. This study aims to provide valuable information about the best ways to prepare the jaw for dental implants and improve patient outcomes.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • A minimum age of 18 years old
• • In need for extraction of a single (pre)molar in the mandible that needs to be replaced by an implant
• • At least one adjacent tooth
• • A buccal bone defect after extraction of 50% or more
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Active periodontal disease
• • Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
• • History of or current chemotherapy or radiation in the head and neck area
• • History of or current use of medication related to osteonecrosis of the jaw
• • Heavy and moderate smokers (\>5 cigarettes a day)
• • Unable to maintain basic oral health (physical and/or mental)
• • Pregnancy (in case of pregnancy, the treatment is postponed until after the delivery)