Osseodensification for Narrow Alveolar Ridge Expansion

This prospective clinical study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of osseodensification in expanding narrow alveolar ridges during dental implant site preparation. Alveolar ridge deficiency is a common clinical challenge that may complicate implant placement. Osseodensification is a minimally invasive drilling technique that preserves and compacts bone rather than removing it, potentially allowing simultaneous ridge expansion and implant placement. In this study, patients presenting with narrow alveolar ridges indicated for dental implant placement will be treated using Densah burs operating in a non-extractive (densifying) mode. Ridge width will be measured directly using standardized Micro Castroviejo bone calipers at two reference levels: at the crestal bone level and at 5mm, at 10 mm apical to the crest. Measurements will be recorded immediately before and immediately after osseodensification. The primary objective is to assess the dimensional changes in ridge width achieved through osseodensification without the use of additional ridge augmentation procedures. The study focuses solely on within-subject comparison (pre- and post-expansion measurements) and does not compare this technique to other ridge expansion methods. The results are expected to provide clinical evidence regarding the amount of horizontal ridge expansion achievable using osseodensification and its applicability in managing narrow alveolar ridges for implant therapy.