Localized ridge augmentation using a micro titanium mesh: a report on 27 implants followed from 1 to 3 years after functional loading

The present paper describes the clinical and radiographic healing results of 27 implants followed from 1 to 3 years after functional implant loading. Prior to implant placement, alveolar ridges with insufficient bone volume were augmented using autogenous bone grafts and a micro titanium mesh for graft stabilization. After a mean interval of 5.2 months implants were installed. Following an osseointegration period of on average 7.2 months, implants were supplied with suprastructures. The mean loading period for the 27 implants was 21 months. All implants exhibited ankylotic stability and healthy peri-implant soft tissues. The detailed analysis of clinical parameters (probing depth, level of mucosal margin, attachment level, modified plaque and sulcus bleeding indices) and radiographic measurements (crestal bone level), revealed findings similar to those at implants placed into nonaugmented bone. Peri-implant bone resorption was calculated to be 1.0 mm for the Ist year after implant loading and 0.1 mm for the following year. Pain, suppuration or semilunar bone defects were absent at all implants. It was concluded that loaded dental implants which have been inserted into an augmented alveolar ridge using autogenous bone grafts and a micro titanium mesh for graft stabilization, demonstrate clinical and radiographic findings similar to those of implants placed into a pristine ridge.