Management of Compromised Vertical Alveolar Ridge using Distraction Osteogenesis

Deficient alveolar ridge is an often encountered problem which causes problem in providing prosthesis to patients. Acquired alveolar deficiencies are the result of tooth loss and associated periodontal disease, trauma or other pathology. This case report describes vertical mandibular alveolar ridge distraction achieved using Liebenger endosseous alveolar distractor device in a patient who had vertical ridge defect due to localized aggressive periodontitis leading to tooth loss. Total 5.6mm vertical distraction in mandibular alveolar ridge was achieved at 0.8mm per day in eight days. The advantage of this technique is that there is no need for bone harvesting hence it is not associated with donor site morbidity. Moreover gain of both soft tissue along with hard tissue is achieved.