Evaluation of Alveolar Bone Loss under Immediate Dentures Fabricated with Spatial Modelling Technique - A Descriptive Study

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the height and width of alveolar bone, before and after insertion of immediate dentures fabricated via the Spatial Modeling Technique, for patients destined for implant prostheses. Study Design: Prospective observational study with a pre-post intervention analysis. Settings: Department of Prosthodontics, Institute of Dentistry, CMH Lahore Medical College, Lahore Pakistan. Duration: Six months from January 01, 2021 to June 30, 2021. Methods: On a sample of 240 subjects, alveolar bone height and width were evaluated via CBCTs as per specified landmarks. Immediate dentures were fabricated via the Spatial Modeling cast modification technique, teeth were extracted, and dentures were inserted in subjects. 3 months post extraction, alveolar bone height, and width were evaluated via CBCT on the same landmarks. Mean loss of alveolar bone was noted. Results: The mean change in height pre and post-extraction was 0.13 ± 0.14. The mean change in width was 2.95 ±1.24. Conclusion: Functional stimulation and protection provided by immediate dentures may result in improved preservation of alveolar bone as compared to bone healing without immediate dentures. Conservative cast modification technique for fabrication of immediate dentures may lead to decreased post-extraction alveolar bone loss in height and width. Increased conservation in labial and lingual reduction in the Spatial Modelling technique may further reduce alveolar bone loss. The selection of a flangeless design of immediate dentures may further preserve alveolar bone width. Clinical Relevance: This study may help in the treatment planning of patients who desire future implants. It may also help in the objective selection of cast modification techniques for patients desiring immediate replacement of teeth.