Extraction of Endodontically Treated Teeth in Preparation for Implant Placement without Bone Grafts

Extracting root canal treated teeth taxes the surgeon, often secondary to brittleness of the teeth and loss of compressive strength^1,2.  Routine extrusion methods fail and large areas of buccal bone removal often necessitate grafting in preparation for concurrent or later dental implants.

Here we present a novel groove and apicoectomy technique for the surgical extraction of endodontically treated teeth. Crestal alveolar bone is preserved. This technique allows for delayed or immediate placement of implants post extraction. With delayed treatment, grafting has not been necessary in over 50 cases and rarely a buccal membrane may be used. 2 cases are presented with clinical documentation and step by step photographs.

 

References:

1. Heifer AR, Melnick S, Schilder H. Determination of the moisture content of vital and pulpless teeth. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol 1972; 34:661-70
2. Sedgley, CM, Messer HH . Are Endodontically Treated Teeth More Brittle?. J Endodon 1992; 18:332-5.