Autogenous dentin grafting of osseous defects distal to maxilar secound molars after extraction of impacted third molars

Bone loss at the distal aspect of mandibular or maxillary second molars frequently is reported after extraction of impacted third molars. This study examined osseous healing following guided bone regeneration treatment of osseous defects distal to maxillary second molars after surgical removal of impacted mesioangulary or horizontally inclined third molars using the processed third molar as the graft material. After surgical extraction of the third molars, the extracted teeth were stripped of any soft tissue, including the periodontal ligament, then grinded and disinfected using a dentin grinding protocol to produce an autogenous dentin graft (ADG). This graft was then placed into the extraction socket and covered with a hemostatic sponge prior to site closure. On the control (right)site underwent the same procedure as those in the left(study) site except that no ADG was placed into the socket. The alveolar bone level distal to the second molar was established by both probing depths and radiographic evaluation, which were compared between the two sites. Clinical and radiological examinations were performed, including panoramic radiographs and probing depths before and 3 months postoperatively