Alveolar bone grafts distal to the lower second molar.

INTRODUCTION: This paper presents case and technique reports on the use of Bio-Oss® and Bio-Gide® implantable material for the establishment of a mineral and protein scaffold for reconstruction of the distal alveolus of the lower distal second molar (lower dM2).
METHODS: Such 'alveolar bone grafts' were undertaken immediately following the removal of deep horizontal or mesio-angular impacted wisdom teeth, and which had the following associations. 1) Partial eruption of the third molar, 2) Preoperative radiographic (OPG) evidence of loss of bone height (≥3mm) below the distal Cemento-Enamel Junction (CEJ) of the lower dM2, and 3) Patient aged ≥26 years of age. Following a presentation of radiographs (in three patients) taken preoperatively and postoperatively (at ∼6 months), a brief description of the technique is offered as well as a brief literature review on the subject.
CONCLUSION: The author suggests that for older patients (≥26 years) were there is the presence of partially exposed deep mesio-angular or horizontal impacted wisdom teeth, and which are associated with the radiographic appearance of bone loss to the distal surface of the lower second molar tooth, then alveolar bone grafting utilising Bio-Oss® and Bio-Gide® is an effective and stable treatment option to prevent development of periodontal pocketing in the area. The author advises for more guided and systematised study in this area.