The application of alveolar distraction osteogenesis following nonresorbable hydroxyapatite grafting in the anterior maxilla: A clinical report

Distraction osteogenesis is a method of increasing bone length through the application of slow, controlled force on bone segments where periosteum and medullary blood supply are maintained. Recently, the procedure has been adapted to alveolar augmentation prior to prosthodontic rehabilitation. This report describes the use of alveolar distraction in the anterior maxilla and presents, to the authors' knowledge, the first reported successful application of the technique following nonresorbable hydroxyapatite grafting.