Osseodensification for Narrow Alveolar Ridge Expansion

Overview

This prospective clinical study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of osseodensification in expanding narrow alveolar ridges during dental implant site preparation. Alveolar ridge deficiency is a common clinical challenge that may complicate implant placement. Osseodensification is a minimally invasive drilling technique that preserves and compacts bone rather than removing it, potentially allowing simultaneous ridge expansion and implant placement. In this study, patients presenting with narrow alveolar ridges indicated for dental implant placement will be treated using Densah burs operating in a non-extractive (densifying) mode. Ridge width will be measured directly using standardized Micro Castroviejo bone calipers at two reference levels: at the crestal bone level and at 5mm, at 10 mm apical to the crest. Measurements will be recorded immediately before and immediately after osseodensification. The primary objective is to assess the dimensional changes in ridge width achieved through osseodensification without the use of additional ridge augmentation procedures. The study focuses solely on within-subject comparison (pre- and post-expansion measurements) and does not compare this technique to other ridge expansion methods. The results are expected to provide clinical evidence regarding the amount of horizontal ridge expansion achievable using osseodensification and its applicability in managing narrow alveolar ridges for implant therapy.

This prospective clinical study follows a standardized protocol for alveolar ridge expansion using osseodensification. After local anesthesia and reflection of a full-thickness mucoperiosteal flap, the initial bone width is measured at the crest (0 mm) and 5 mm apical to the crest using Micro Castroviejo Bone Calipers. The implant site preparation begins with a pilot drill, followed by the use of densifying burs (e.g., Densah Burs) in a counter-clockwise direction (non-subtractive mode) with copious irrigation. This technique allows for lateral condensation and expansion of the bone as the burs advance. After reaching the final desired diameter, the bone width is measured again at the same two levels (0 mm and 5 mm) to record the expansion gain. Finally, the dental implant is placed, and primary stability is recorded using Insertion Torque . Post-operative care and follow-up follow standard dental implant protocols