Alveolar Ridge Preservation Comparing Allograft, Alloplast, and Autogenous Tooth Graft: A Randomized Clinical Trial

IntroductionFollowing tooth extraction, sequels of events that reduce alveolar crest width and height take place. Alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) after extraction of a tooth is crucial as it maintains ridge dimensions facilitating dental implant placement. Previous systematic reviews and clinical trials recommended allografts, alloplasts, and autogenous tooth bone graft (Auto-BT). However, the results were heterogeneous about the exact superiority of one material over the other. Thus, the herein work aimed to evaluate the efficiency of the different bone graft materials in ARP. Material and MethodsIn this randomized clinical trial, thirty patients were divided into three groups. ARP was performed using allograft, alloplast, and Auto-BT. Changes in alveolar ridge dimensions were evaluated clinically, radiographically, and histomorphometrically after 3 months. ResultsResults of intergroup comparisons for clinical and radiographic measurements showed higher bone loss values in the allograft and alloplast groups than in the Auto-BT group. Histological measurements disclosed that the Auto-BT group had the highest value of mature bone followed by alloplast while allograft presented the lowest value. ConclusionIn conclusion, tooth graft could be considered a viable alternative to other graft materials in ARP. Autogenous tooth graft is the new concept of graft material. They can be processed and used as an economical, natural, and biocompatible, versatile, and predictable grafting material.