Socket preservation using deproteinized horse-derived bone mineral

Purpose: The healing process following tooth extraction apparently results in a pronounced resorption of the alveolar ridge. As a result, the width of alveolar ridge is reduced and severe alveolar bone resorption occurs. The purpose of this experiment is to clinically and histologically evaluate the results of using horse-derived bone mineral for socket preservation. Methods: The study comprised 4 patients who were scheduled for extraction as a consequence of severe chronic periodontitis or apical lesion. The extraction was followed by socket preservation using horse-derived bone minerals. Clinical parameters included buccal-palatal width, mid-buccal crest height, and mid-palatal crest height. A histologic examination was conducted. Results: The surgical sites healed uneventfully. The mean ridge width was $7.75{\pm}2.75\;mm$ at baseline and $7.00{\pm}2.45\;mm$ at 6 months. The ridge width exhibited no significant difference between baseline and 6 months. The mean buccal crest height at baseline was $7.5{\pm}5.20\;mm$, and at 6 months, $3.50{\pm}0.58\;mm$. The mean palatal crest height at baseline was $7.75{\pm}3.10\;mm$, and at 6 months, $5.00{\pm}0.82\;mm$. There were no significant differences between baseline and 6 months regarding buccal and palatal crest heights. The amount of newly formed bone was $9.88{\pm}2.90%$, the amount of graft particles was $42.62{\pm}6.57%$, and the amount of soft tissue was $47.50{\pm}9.28%$. Conclusions: Socket preservation using horse-derived bone mineral can effectively maintain ridge dimensions following tooth extraction and can promote new bone formation through osteoconductive activities.