Functional loading of bioceramic augmented alveolar ridge--a pilot study.

Two mongrel adult dogs were used in this study. The mandible was edentulated unilaterally and then augmented with porous tribasic calcium phosphate ceramic. To determine the effects of a denture over the augmented site, a unilateral distal-extension removable partial denture was constructed and inserted. At the end of the 6-month period, clinical evaluation revealed a healthy residual alveolar ridge tissue with no inflammatory reaction due to the implant. Histologic examination confirmed the clinical findings. There was no inflammation, bone and soft tissue grew into the pores, and no bone resorption occurred. It is concluded therefore that porous tribasic calcium phosphate ceramic is a potential material for residual alveolar ridge augmentation.