Evaluation of the tenting screw technique in the reconstruction of severe alveolar ridge defects (a report of 11 cases)

doi:10.12337/zgkqzzxzz.2025.10.006

Abstract

Abstract: Objective To investigate the clinical efficacy of the tenting screw technique in the treatment of severe bone defects. Methods A total of 11 patients with severe bone defects, involving 19 graft sites, were included between January 2021 to December 2023. The tenting screw technique was used for bone augmentation, and dental implants were placed 6 months after the procedure. Bone augmentation outcomes and complications were recorded and evaluated. Results The average horizontal bone width increased by (3.12±0.30) mm, while the average vertical bone height increased by (1.29±0.50) mm. Exposure of tenting screws occurred at 4 grafted sites (in 2 patients), but no signs of infection were observed in the grafted areas. Conclusion The tenting screw technique aligns with the “central support” concept, wherein a tenting screw is positioned centrally within the defect to provide support and maintain the osteogenic space. This method effectively enhances horizontal bone width, though its efficacy in vertical bone augmentation remains controversial and requires further investigation.

Key words: Tenting screw technique, Dental implants, Bone defect

Zheng Jiabao, Gao Wenmo, Chen Ming. Evaluation of the tenting screw technique in the reconstruction of severe alveolar ridge defects (a report of 11 cases)[J]. Chinese Journal of Oral Implantology, 2025, 30(5): 464-471.

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