Utilization of magnetic mallet during dental implantation in narrow mandibular alveolar ridge: A case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Placing dental implants in a narrow mandibular alveolar ridge poses a range of significant challenges. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the combined application of piezoelectric surgery and magnetic mallet for alveolar ridge splitting and bone expansion in dental implant procedures. It aims to highlight the potential benefits of integrating these technologies in mandibular implant sites.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 39-year-old female patient sought dental implants for missing teeth in the mandible. She was a non-smoker with no systemic diseases, and clinical examinations revealed no abnormalities. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) showed a narrow alveolar ridge, insufficient for 4 mm diameter implants. To address this, an alveolar ridge split and expansion were performed under local anesthesia. Ridge splitting and bone expansion were achieved with a piezoelectric device and magnetic mallet, followed by implant placement. A two-stage approach was used, with a 4-month healing period before prosthetic restoration. Post-surgery and post-loading evaluations showed satisfactory results, with minimal marginal bone loss and high patient satisfaction. The follow-up CBCT confirmed stable outcomes.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

In this case report, a magnetic mallet was used to place dental implants in a patient with a narrow mandibular ridge, suitable for ridge splitting and bone expansion. Ridge expansion was preferred over alternatives due to its compatibility with established protocols. The procedure yielded positive outcomes, including minimal discomfort and good implant stability. However, the magnetic mallet requires specific skills and may be costlier. Its effectiveness can vary by patient factors, emphasizing the need for careful candidate selection and further research on long-term outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The use of magnetic mallets for dental implant placement in narrow mandibular ridges shows promising results. Combining piezosurgery for bone splitting with magnetic mallet usage for bone expansion may enhance outcomes, providing a synergistic effect on the success of implants in these challenging cases.