Due to the atrophy implant placement requires in many cases a grafting technique. Various techniques are available which state to improve the implant side. To evaluate the results of ridge splitting and retro-molar block grafts an analysis of the initial results after one year was performed.
Retromolar block grafts require two surgery to place the implants, but less material like bone substitute material or membranes are necessary. The overall expenses show no difference for each technique.
Ridge splitting is a favorable procedure in the anterior maxilla if the patient accepts an removable suprastructure or fixed restoration with pink porcelain to compensate the loss of vertical dimension. Retromolar block grafts are supporting bone and soft tissue for anterior single teeth. Depending on the patient demands and the anatomical finding each procedure has its indication.