Atrophic mandible reconstruction using calvarial bone grafts and implant-supported overdentures: radiographic assessment of autograft healing and adaptation.

Abstract

Bone grafting constitutes a vital surgical procedure in the management of severely atrophic mandibles. In this regard, calvarial bone autografts are applied in the reconstruction of wide mandibular defects caused by edentulousness and long-term denture-related resorption. Grafts are used as a framework to augment the residual ridge and provide implant stability for further prosthetic restoration. On the basis that radiographic evidence corresponds to biologic changes in bone response to transplantation and loading, the goal of this article is to document the radiographic assessment of calvarial autologous bone grafts in the recipient site. Panoramic radiographs were used to evaluate bone changes occurring during both the graft healing period and graft adaptation after implant loading. Emerging data show that conventional panoramic radiography may have an effect on the investigation of bone grafts and provide initial information about graft incorporation and adaptation.