Procurement of Autogenous Bone from the Mandibular Ramus with Simultaneous Third-Molar Removal for Bone Grafting Using the Er, Cr:YSGG Laser: A Preliminary Report

Lasers and radiofrequency devices in dentistry

Advances in technology are changing the ways that patients experience dental treatment. Technology helps to decrease treatment time and makes the treatment more comfortable for the patient. One technological advance is the use of lasers in dentistry. Lasers are providing more efficient, more comfortable, and more predictable outcomes for patients. Lasers are used in all aspects of dentistry, including operative, periodontal, endodontic, orthodontic, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. Lasers are used for soft and hard tissue procedures in the treatment of pathologic conditions and for esthetic procedures. This article discusses how lasers work and their application in the various specialties within dentistry.

Immediate Load Protocol for Anterior Maxilla With Cortical Bone From Mandibular Ramus

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the concept of a nonfunctional immediate load protocol with single implants placed in the anterior maxilla that has been bone grafted with autogenous, block cortical grafts harvested from the ramus of the mandible.

METHODS

There were 19 hydroxyapatite-coated dental implants surgically placed in 19 patients, and immediately loaded between 48 hours and 3 days later with a custom acrylic provisional restoration that was placed out of functional occlusion. After 12 weeks, the definitive ceramo metal restoration was cemented to the custom abutment.

RESULTS

Over a 1-year observation period, all implants continue to function.

CONCLUSION

The preliminary results of this clinical study indicate that immediate, nonfunctional load with single implants is a predictable protocol in the bone grafted anterior maxilla in select cases.