A comparative analysis of bone expansion using Densah burs versus ridge split with expanders for implant placement in narrow ridges

Introduction: Tooth loss leads to significant alveolar ridge resorption, complicating dental implant placement. Immediate implant placement and techniques like guided bone regeneration and ridge split technique aim to address these challenges but come with risks. Aim of the study was to evaluate bone thickness augmentation and implant survival in narrow ridges with horizontal atrophy treated with two different techniques: the ridge split technique and osseodensification with Densah® burs, with simultaneous implant placement. Material and methods: A total of 30 narrow ridges with a width range between 3-6 mm and adequate vertical bone height were considered for the study and divided into two groups for treatment by two different techniques: the ridge split technique (RST) and osseodensification (OD) with Densah® burs. Results: The difference of buccolingual width (mm) between two time intervals of two groups show significant differences post-procedure with p-values < 0.001, suggesting better outcomes in group with Densah® burs. Conclusion: Findings suggest osseodensification offers superior outcomes, demonstrating significant bone expansion and primary stability, making it a promising technique for dental implantology in cases of narrow ridges.