Extraction socket preservation using a collagen plug combined withplatelet-rich plasma (PRP): A comparative clinico-radiographic study

Background. Alveolar bone remodeling after tooth loss results in reduced ridge dimensions in horizontal and vertical planes. To prevent this, various authors have proposed different ridge preservation techniques. A collagen plug is a novel material that has shown promising results in preserving the alveolar bone. PRP has also yielded favorable outcomes in wound healing and promoted osteoinduction and osteoconduction

Methods. Thirty patients of both sexes with an age range of 18–30 years requiring bilateral extraction of teeth with similar tooth root anatomy in the maxilla or mandible were included in the study. The extraction of teeth was carried out atraumatically. The patients’ arches were randomly divided and labeled as the test or control sides. Bone width was measured on both sides. A collagen plug, with PRP, was placed, and the extraction socket was sutured on the test side. The control side was just sutured. A baseline RVG was taken to record the apico-coronal height. The patients were recalled after 10 days for suture removal and evaluation of wound healing. Parameters were re-evaluated at three and six months postoperatively. The data were subjected to t-test and one-way ANOVA.

Results. The height of the crestal bone on the grafted side was more when compared to the non-grafted side three and six months after tooth extractions, and the difference was statically significant (P<0.001). No statistically significant difference was seen in the width of the alveolar bone three and six months after tooth extraction (P>0.05).

Conclusion. Collagen and PRP provided reasonable socket preservation as simple and inexpensive options as compared to other materials.