Ridge Augmentation Using a Self-Retaining Block Bone Material in Damaged Extraction Sockets: A Multi-Centre Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

AIM To compare the dimensional stability of a self-retaining synthetic block bone (srBB) and synthetic bone particles (SBP) for alveolar ridge augmentation (ARA) in damaged extraction sockets. MATERIALS AND METHODS ARA was randomly performed in two centres on 57 participants presenting damaged extraction socket in a non-molar tooth: (i) srBB and collagen membrane (srBB group, n = 29) or (ii) SBP and collagen membrane (SBP group, n = 28). Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was performed immediately after ARP (baseline, T0) and at 6 months (T1). T0 and T1 CBCTs were superimposed, and horizontal widths (H0-H5), vertical heights and volume changes were assessed using t-test. RESULTS Due to wound dehiscence, srBB was removed in 10 patients. The change in horizontal width at the most coronal level (H0) was significantly lower for srBB compared to SBP (srBB: 0.8 ± 1.0 mm; SBP: 1.9 ± 2.2 mm, p < 0.05). Significantly less volume decrease was seen at the bucco-coronal level for srBB (srBB: 3.2 ± 0.6 mm$^{3}$; SBP: 10.4 ± 2.3 mm$^{3}$, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Compared to synthetic bone particles, synthetic bone blocks have the potential to more effectively augment and maintain the coronal horizontal dimension and width of damaged extraction sockets for up to 6 months. However, this advantage is offset by their relatively high rates of early wound dehiscence. TRIAL REGISTRATION Korean Clinical Research information service (CRIS) (KCT0005462).