PURPOSE: This study evaluated horizontal distraction of the narrow alveolar ridge in dogs and the possibility of achieving osseointegration of implants placed into the distracted site during a consolidation period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six beagle dogs weighing approximately 9 to 10 kg were used in this experiment. Twelve weeks after extraction of the mandibular premolars, horizontal alveolar ridge distraction was performed using an originally designed lengthening apparatus. Twelve days after the completion of distraction, screw-type implants were placed into the distracted site. RESULTS: Twelve weeks after the placement of implants, thin lamellar bone rose horizontally from the transport segment toward the surface of the implant. Twenty-four weeks after their placement, the implants were fully embedded in mature lamellar bone, and direct bone contact with the implant surface could be seen. DISCUSSION: Horizontal alveolar ridge distraction was performed successfully by using a lengthening apparatus in the narrow alveolar models. Osseointegration was achieved even though the implants were placed into the distracted site during the consolidation period. CONCLUSION: Horizontal alveolar ridge distraction can be a beneficial technique in the placement of implants In the narrow alveolar ridge in the dog population.
PURPOSE: This study evaluated horizontal distraction of the narrow alveolar ridge in dogs and the possibility of achieving osseointegration of implants placed into the distracted site during a consolidation period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Six beagle dogs weighing approximately 9 to 10 kg were used in this experiment. Twelve weeks after extraction of the mandibular premolars, horizontal alveolar ridge distraction was performed using an originally designed lengthening apparatus. Twelve days after the completion of distraction, screw-type implants were placed into the distracted site. RESULTS: Twelve weeks after the placement of implants, thin lamellar bone rose horizontally from the transport segment toward the surface of the implant. Twenty-four weeks after their placement, the implants were fully embedded in mature lamellar bone, and direct bone contact with the implant surface could be seen. DISCUSSION: Horizontal alveolar ridge distraction was performed successfully by using a lengthening apparatus in the narrow alveolar models. Osseointegration was achieved even though the implants were placed into the distracted site during the consolidation period. CONCLUSION: Horizontal alveolar ridge distraction can be a beneficial technique in the placement of implants In the narrow alveolar ridge in the dog population.